Looking for a quick and easy way to make crispy chicken legs without deep frying? The air fryer delivers perfect results every time. With minimal oil and maximum crunch, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prep. Customize the seasoning to suit your taste, and enjoy restaurant-quality chicken at home!
Ingredients
- 6 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper for heat
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
Instructions
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set the air fryer to 380°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for 5 minutes.
2. Season the Chicken Legs:
- In a mixing bowl, coat the chicken legs with olive oil.
- Mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using) in a small bowl. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken legs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
- Place the chicken legs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded for even cooking.
4. Cook the Chicken Legs:
- Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping the chicken legs halfway through. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
5. Serve:
- Remove the chicken legs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, vegetables, or sides.
Tips
- Crispier Skin: For extra crispiness, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.
- Seasoning Variations: Experiment with different seasonings like lemon pepper, Cajun spice, or BBQ rub to switch things up.
- Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Air fryer chicken legs are a quick, easy, and versatile recipe that delivers crispy, juicy results every time. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes in the air fryer, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to impress. Try it tonight and see why it’s a family favorite!
Air Fryer Chicken Legs Recipe
Crispy, juicy, and full of flavor, these air fryer chicken legs are a game-changer! Perfect for an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner or snack, they’re ready in under 30 minutes.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 6 chicken legs drumsticks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper for heat
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set the air fryer to 380°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for 5 minutes.
- Season the Chicken Legs:
- In a mixing bowl, coat the chicken legs with olive oil.
- Mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using) in a small bowl. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken legs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer:
- Place the chicken legs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded for even cooking.
- Cook the Chicken Legs:
- Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping the chicken legs halfway through. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove the chicken legs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, vegetables, or sides.
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