Fried chicken legs made in the air fryer are a game-changer! You get all the crispy goodness without the excess oil, making for a healthier yet still incredibly flavorful dish. Perfect for family dinners, game days, or just because you crave something delicious, this recipe is straightforward and sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to achieve perfectly cooked fried chicken legs in your air fryer!
Ingredients
- 4-6 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken legs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- Make the Coating: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This will create a light and crispy coating.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps achieve that crispy exterior.
Step 4: Coat and Cook the Chicken Legs
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken legs from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each leg in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the coated chicken legs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. If needed, cook in batches.
- Spray with Oil: Lightly spray the chicken legs with cooking spray or olive oil to help them crisp up during cooking.
- Air Fry: Cook the chicken legs at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time. The chicken should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let Them Rest: Once cooked, remove the chicken legs from the air fryer and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy your crispy air fryer fried chicken legs with your favorite sides, like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or corn on the cob!
Tips for Success
- Adjust the Spice: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. The juices should run clear when pierced.
- Storage: Leftover chicken legs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Fried Chicken Legs are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish with a healthier twist. With their crispy exterior and juicy meat, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your cooking, and feel free to share your delicious results! Happy frying!