Looking for a quick and easy dinner your family will actually be excited about? These air fried chicken legs are juicy on the inside, perfectly crispy on the outside, and bursting with flavor thanks to a pantry spice blend.
They’re one of my go-to recipes when I need something fuss-free, budget-friendly, and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re hosting guests or just feeding your crew, this is a winner every time.
Air Fried Chicken Legs
With juicy meat and crisp skin, these are guaranteed crowd-pleasers. It’s incredibly beginner-friendly and comes together in under 30 minutes, which makes it perfect for busy days or last-minute hosting. It’s also easy on the wallet, using basic pantry staples. To make things even smoother, you can season the chicken ahead of time and stash it in the fridge. Plus, you can customize the spice blend with flavors your family loves most.
Key Ingredients
Here’s a quick overview of the key ingredients for this recipe. For the full list of ingredients and exact measurements, be sure to check the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Chicken legs (drumsticks): Look for skin-on, bone-in drumsticks. They’re often one of the most affordable cuts and cook quickly. Also, make sure to dry them well using paper towels. This is the key to crispy skin.
- Olive oil: Helps the seasoning adhere and encourages a crispy exterior. Avocado oil or grapeseed oil also works well.
- Paprika: Adds color and a hint of smoky depth. Try smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
- Onion powder: Mild and savory, balances the blend.
- Garlic powder: Adds warmth and depth. Don’t substitute with garlic salt.
- Salt & black pepper: Go with freshly ground black pepper for a bit more kick.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Just a pinch (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon) wakes up the flavor.
It’s best to thaw them first, but if cooking from frozen, add about 5 to 7 minutes and check internal temp carefully.
How To Make Air Fried Chicken Legs
Make Your Seasoning
In a large bowl, stir together olive oil, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using.
Coat the Chicken & Cook
Add the drumsticks to the bowl and toss them until every piece is coated in that seasoned oil mixture.
Preheat your air fryer, and place chicken legs in a single layer in the basket. Air fry at 400°F for 12 minutes. Flip the legs and cook for another 12 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Let them sit for a few minutes before serving. This keeps the juices inside and the texture perfect.
Make sure the skin is dry before seasoning, leave space between pieces, and don’t skip flipping.
Yes, season up to 24 hours in advance and store in the fridge until ready to cook.
Variations, Substitutions, and Recipe Tips
No cayenne? Swap in chili powder or red pepper flakes.
Make it smoky: Use smoked paprika or add a dash of liquid smoke.
Crispier skin? Sprinkle in a teaspoon of baking powder to the seasoning blend.
Herb it up: Toss in some dried thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for an aromatic twist.
Want a glaze? Brush with BBQ sauce, hot honey, or even a mix of melted butter and hot sauce during the final 2 to 3 minutes of cooking.
Hospitality Challenge
Make these crispy chicken legs, then invite someone over who serves others often but is rarely served themselves; a teacher, nurse, caregiver, ministry leader, or busy mom. Keep the night simple and restful. Light a candle, plate the food, and let them know they’re not here to help or host, just to be cared for. No fanfare, no agenda, just a quiet space to rest and be reminded they’re seen, valued, and loved.
You can serve your chicken with a warm slice of this Classic Southern Cornbread Recipe and a light Refreshing Greek Salad With Watermelon and Feta. To close the evening, serve a comforting bowl of Southern Fried Apples Recipe for a sweet, cozy touch.
More Air Fryer Recipes You’ll Love
- Crispy Guide For How to Reheat Wings In An Air Fryer
- Perfect Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe
- Southern-Style Crispy Air Fryer Fried Green Tomatoes
- Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Buffalo Sauce
- Juicy Air Fryer Pork Chops Bone In Recipe
I hope this recipe for air fried chicken legs becomes one of your go-to dinners. If you have any questions about making this recipe, feel free to ask in the comments below. I’m here to help!
Crispy Air Fried Chicken Legs Recipe in Under 30 Minutes
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Ingredients
- 6 chicken legs, drumsticks, skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt, add more to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional, for heat
Instructions
Prep the Chicken Legs
- Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the skin get crispier and allows the seasoning to stick better.6 chicken legs
Mix the Seasonings
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until well mixed.2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 ½ teaspoons paprika, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Season Drumsticks and Put In Air Fryer
- Add the chicken legs to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the seasoned oil mixture.
- Place the chicken legs in a single layer in your air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece so the hot air can circulate properly.
Air Fry Drumsticks
- Preheat your air fryer and then air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 minutes. Flip the chicken legs over and cook for another 12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Serve and Enjoy
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving. The skin will be crispy and golden.
Gina’s Notes and Tips
- Store: Once cooled, place any leftover drumsticks in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked drumsticks in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Air fry at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes or until hot and crisp. If they were frozen, let them thaw overnight in the fridge first. Avoid the microwave to keep the skin crispy.
Equipment
