Description
This Air Fryer Chicken Legs recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with a crispy skin in just 32 minutes. Marinated in a blend of brown sugar and smoky spices, these legs are perfectly cooked using the air fryer for a healthier, faster alternative to traditional frying without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 6 chicken legs
Spice Mix
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 1.5 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp ground mustard
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Other
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or substitute with olive or avocado oil)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken legs dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which helps the skin crisp up during cooking.
- Make the Spice Mix: In a large zip-top bag, combine the brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, ground mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Shake well to mix all the spices evenly.
- Season the Chicken: Add the chicken legs to the zip-top bag with the spice mix. Pour in the vegetable oil and shake the bag until the chicken legs are evenly coated with the spice blend and oil.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and crispy results.
- Cook the Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken legs in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Air fry at 380°F for 18 to 22 minutes, turning the legs halfway through cooking to brown all sides evenly. Cook until the internal temperature reaches between 165°F and 185°F.
- Serve: Remove the chicken legs from the air fryer and serve hot. Enjoy with your favorite sides and dipping sauces for a complete meal.
Notes
- Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps achieve crispier skin.
- Turning the chicken halfway ensures even cooking and browning.
- The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F for safe consumption.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount according to your heat preference.
- You can substitute vegetable oil with olive oil or avocado oil for healthier fats.
- If your air fryer basket is small, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
