Crispy Air Fried Chicken Legs Recipe in Under 30 Minutes
Air fried chicken legs are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly crisp with just pantry spices and no breading. This easy recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute hosting. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s budget-friendly and simple to make.
Equipment
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.
Notes
Storage and Reheating
- 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.
Nutrition
Serving: 1g | Calories: 321kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 120mg | Sodium: 303mg | Potassium: 279mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 227IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 15mg | Iron: 1mg
