Chicken leg quarters are a delicious and budget-friendly option for a hearty meal. Cooking them in an air fryer results in crispy skin and juicy meat with minimal effort. Here’s a simple and tasty recipe to make air fryer chicken leg quarters.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: lemon wedges, fresh herbs for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat Dry: Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure crispy skin.
- Trim Excess Fat: Trim any excess fat or skin from the chicken leg quarters.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- Mix the Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Oil and Season: Rub the chicken leg quarters with olive oil. Then, evenly sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken, rubbing it in to coat all sides.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the chicken leg quarters in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin side down. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
- Air Fry: Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 15 minutes. Then, flip the chicken leg quarters over and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Rest: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired. Serve with your favorite sides.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters
- Temperature Check: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked. The thickest part of the meat should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Space for Air Circulation: Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Proper air circulation is key for even cooking and crispy skin.
- Skin Side Down First: Starting with the skin side down helps render the fat and crisp up the skin.
Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or rice.
- Sauce: Pair with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli, BBQ sauce, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters are a simple and delicious way to enjoy crispy, juicy chicken without the hassle of deep frying. With the right seasoning and cooking technique, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Enjoy making and eating this delicious chicken dish!