These Air Fryer Fried Chicken Legs are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor! With the help of the air fryer, you can enjoy fried chicken without the need for deep frying, making it a healthier (but still delicious) option. The seasoning blend creates a crispy coating that locks in moisture, while the air fryer cooks the chicken legs perfectly with minimal oil. A great choice for a quick, tasty, and satisfying meal!

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken legs (drumsticks), skin on
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a bit of heat)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk as a substitute)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken Legs: Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels. This helps the coating adhere better. Rub the chicken legs with a little olive oil or lightly spray them with cooking spray.
  2. Make the Coating: In a shallow dish or bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and thyme. Mix until well combined.
  3. Dip the Chicken in Buttermilk: Dip each chicken leg into the buttermilk, coating it well. Then, dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure the chicken is fully coated. You can press the flour mixture onto the chicken to ensure a good, thick coating.
  4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Air Fry the Chicken Legs: Place the coated chicken legs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray for a golden, crispy exterior. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking time. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
  6. Check for Crispiness: After the chicken is cooked through, if you want an extra-crispy exterior, you can air fry the chicken legs for an additional 3-5 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to achieve a crispier coating.
  7. Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken legs from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. They’ll be crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside!

Nutrition (Approx. Per Chicken Leg):

  • Calories: 280-320 kcal
  • Fat: 18g
    • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
    • Fiber: 1g
    • Sugar: 1g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

These Air Fryer Fried Chicken Legs are a healthier take on fried chicken, offering that crispy exterior and juicy interior you love, without the heavy oil. The seasoning is perfect for a tasty, flavorful bite, and the air fryer makes them quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy nights!