How to Cook Juicy, Crispy Chicken Legs in an Air Fryer

A fast and easy way to make a tasty dinner during the week is to cook chicken legs in an air fryer. When you air fry chicken legs, the meat stays juicy and the skin gets amazingly crispy with almost no oil used. You should try this easy recipe if you have an air fryer!

Benefits of Cooking Chicken Legs in an Air Fryer

There are several advantages to cooking chicken legs in an air fryer compared to conventional oven baking

• Uses up to 80% less oil than traditional frying methods. Air fryers cook food by rapidly circulating hot air rather than submerging it in oil, resulting in less fat and calories.

• Cooks the chicken quickly and evenly. The hot air crisps up the skin beautifully while keeping the meat tender and moist.

• Easy to flip and turn The air fryer basket makes it simple to get evenly browned and cooked chicken legs without the hassle

• Doesn’t heat up the kitchen. Unlike firing up the oven, air fryers don’t make your kitchen unbearably hot.

• Versatile appliance. Air fryers can cook a wide variety of foods from french fries to fish fillets and more.

Ingredients Needed

Cooking delicious air fryer chicken legs only requires a few basic ingredients:

• Chicken legs and drumsticks, skin on and bone-in for the best flavor and texture.

• Oil or cooking spray for lightly coating the chicken skin. This helps promote browning and prevents sticking.

• Seasonings of your choice: garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper work nicely.

• Lemon or lime juice (optional) – the acidity enhances the flavor.

Prep Steps for Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Properly preparing the chicken legs is key for achieving the ideal crispy, juicy results:

• Pat the chicken legs completely dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture allows for crisper skin.

• Coat both sides of the chicken legs lightly with oil. Olive or avocado oil work well.

• Season generously with your choice of spices, herbs, salt, and pepper. Rub it evenly over the skin.

• Optional: Marinate for added flavor. Try a yogurt or buttermilk marinade.

How to Cook Chicken Legs in an Air Fryer

Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked chicken legs every time:

1. Preheat air fryer to 380°F for around 5 minutes. Proper preheating is a must!

2. Place chicken legs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin side down first. Don’t overcrowd.

3. Set air fryer temperature to 380°F and cook for 22-28 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F. If needed, cook 2-3 minutes more.

5. Allow chicken to rest 5 minutes before serving for juicier meat.

Tips and Tricks

• Spray basket with oil to prevent sticking.

• Flip chicken halfway during cooking for evenly browned skin.

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches for optimal results.

• Brush skin lightly with oil or butter near the end for extra crispy skin.

How to Tell When Chicken is Done

It’s crucial to cook chicken legs thoroughly to eliminate harmful bacteria. Here are easy ways to test for doneness:

• Use an instant read meat thermometer. Chicken is safe to eat once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Insert thermometer into the thickest part of the leg, avoiding the bone.

• Look for crispy browned skin and juices that run clear when pierced with a fork.

• Cut into a leg and check that meat is opaque with no traces of pink.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Air fryer chicken legs pair wonderfully with all kinds of sides:

• Classic: Coleslaw, potato salad, french fries, mac and cheese

• Fresh: Steamed broccoli, roasted carrots, green salad, fried rice

• Special: Mashed cauliflower, quinoa pilaf, roasted sweet potatoes

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Allow chicken to cool completely before refrigerating in a sealed container. Keeps 3-4 days.

• Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Crisps the skin back up.

• Can also be reheated in the microwave but the skin won’t be as crispy.

Cooking juicy, crispy chicken legs in the air fryer couldn’t be simpler! With just a few pantry staples and 15 active minutes, you can have a tasty, budget-friendly meal the whole family will love. Ditch the deep fryer and give this easy air fryer chicken legs recipe a try tonight!