Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters

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

  1. Pat Dry: Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure crispy skin.
  2. Trim Excess Fat: Trim any excess fat or skin from the chicken leg quarters.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

  1. Mix the Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  2. 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

  1. Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
See also  Air Fryer Garlic and Parmesan Chicken Wings

Step 5: Rest and Serve

  1. 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.
  2. 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!