
Crispy golden brown air fryer chicken legs served on a white plate.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken legs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
- Pat dry the chicken legs with paper towels.
- Brush chicken legs with olive oil on all sides.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly onto the chicken legs.
- Place chicken legs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, without overlapping.
- Air fry for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Pair with your favorite sauces or sides (e.g., barbecue sauce, ranch, mustard, dill sauce).
Air Fryer Chicken Legs
Description
This air fryer chicken legs dish is a quick and easy way to enjoy crispy and flavorful chicken without deep frying. Perfect for a fast dinner, pairing well with a variety of sauces and sides.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 2 servings
- Course: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
- Keywords: air fryer chicken legs, crispy chicken, easy dinner, healthy chicken legs
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280–300 kcal
- Fat: 18–20g
- Protein: 25–30g
- Carbs: <1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 600–800mg
FAQs – Table of Contents
- How long to cook chicken legs in an air fryer?
- Can I use boneless chicken instead?
- Can I marinate the chicken?
- Can I use different spices?
- How to check if chicken is fully cooked?
- Can I use frozen chicken legs?
- What dipping sauces go well?
- What if I don’t have an air fryer?
- How to make them even crispier?
- Can I use skinless chicken legs?
- Can I double the recipe?
- Can I use other cuts like drumsticks or thighs?
- Can I cook vegetables alongside?
- Can I prepare in advance and reheat?
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long to cook chicken legs in an air fryer?
Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). - Can I use boneless chicken instead?
Yes, but reduce cooking time since boneless pieces cook faster. - Can I marinate the chicken?
Absolutely. Marinate for a few hours or overnight to enhance flavor. - Can I use different spices?
Yes! Feel free to mix and match your favorite spices (e.g., chili powder, rosemary, cumin). - How to check if chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer: internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). - Can I use frozen chicken legs?
It’s best to thaw first for even cooking; if cooking from frozen, increase cook time and check temperature carefully. - What dipping sauces go well?
Try barbecue sauce, ranch, mustard sauce, dill sauce, tomato sauce, jalapeño sauce, kimchi sauce, béarnaise, or cheese sauce. - What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 35–40 minutes in a preheated oven, flipping halfway. - How to make them even crispier?
Coat lightly with breadcrumbs or panko before air frying, or spray with a bit of oil to increase crispness. - Can I use skinless chicken legs?
Yes, but texture may be less crispy without the skin. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. - Can I use other cuts like drumsticks or thighs?
Yes. Adjust cooking time according to size and thickness. - Can I cook vegetables alongside?
Yes, if space allows. Add veggies like carrots or potatoes in a separate layer or basket. - Can I prepare in advance and reheat?
Yes. Store cooked legs in the fridge and reheat in air fryer at 350°F until hot and crispy.
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