These Air Fryer Chicken Legs are crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor! With just a few simple spices and your trusty air fryer, you can have a delicious and healthy meal on the table in no time. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or even a casual dinner party.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Air Fryer Magic: The air fryer creates perfectly crispy skin and juicy meat without all the added fat of deep frying.
- Simple and Flavorful: With just a handful of spices, you can create chicken legs that are bursting with flavor.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
You only need a few simple ingredients to make these delicious chicken legs:
- Chicken legs: We’re using bone-in, skin-on chicken legs for maximum flavor and juiciness.
- Paprika: Adds a smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
- Garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavors.
- Salt: To taste.
- Pepper: To taste.
- Olive oil: Helps the spices adhere to the chicken and promotes browning.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Legs
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F for about 5 minutes. Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the chicken legs with olive oil, then sprinkle the spice mixture all over, making sure to coat both sides.
Step 3: Air Fry
Place the chicken legs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 380°F for 10 minutes, then flip the chicken and cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley, if desired.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Make sure the chicken legs have enough space for the air to circulate properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- Add extra flavor: Try adding other spices, like onion powder, dried herbs, or even a touch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Legs
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, like BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.
- Sides: Pair with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
- Leftover Love: Enjoy the chicken cold or reheat it for a quick and easy lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the air fryer, oven, or microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of legs?
Yes, you can! Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I cook frozen chicken legs in the air fryer?
It’s best to thaw the chicken legs before cooking, but you can cook them from frozen if needed. Just increase the cooking time.
How can I make the skin extra crispy?
Spray the chicken legs with a little more oil halfway through the cooking time.
What other seasonings can I use?
Get creative! Try using your favorite spice blends or create your own custom mix.
There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Air Fryer Chicken Legs that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
PrintAir Fryer Chicken Legs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, these Air Fryer Chicken Legs are a quick and easy weeknight dinner. With a simple spice rub and just 20 minutes of cook time, you’ll have a delicious and healthy meal ready in no time.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 chicken legs
Spices
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Other
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- Chopped cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare Chicken: Pat chicken legs dry and place them in a large bowl. Rub with olive oil.
- Season Chicken: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken legs.
- Air Fry: Place chicken legs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 380°F for 10 minutes.
- Flip and Cook: Flip the chicken legs and cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest and Serve: Remove chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley.
Notes
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for best results. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Flipping the chicken ensures even browning.
- Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken legs. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as BBQ sauce or honey mustard.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken leg
- Calories: 300kcal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg