Air-Fried Chicken Legs: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Chicken legs are a versatile dish that can be cooked in many ways, but did you know that they can also be cooked in an air fryer? Air fryers are a convenient, quick, and easy way to cook chicken legs, resulting in juicy meat and a crispy skin. With a simple blend of everyday ingredients, you can create a delicious meal with minimal mess and maximum flavour. So, if you're looking for a new way to cook chicken legs, read on to find out more about using an air fryer!

Chicken legs cooking time and temperature in an air fryer

Chicken legs are a forgiving meat to cook in an air fryer. The air fryer is perfect for quickly cooking the chicken legs so they are juicy on the inside with a crispy skin.

First, pat the chicken legs dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture from the skin. This helps the oil stick better. Then, add all dry ingredients to a large zip-top bag and shake to mix well. Add the chicken to the bag with vegetable oil and shake until all the chicken is coated.

Preheat your air fryer for 5 minutes at 380°F. You can also preheat to 400°F, depending on your preference. Then, add the chicken to the air fryer and use the "air fry" setting at 380°F for 18–22 minutes, turning the chicken halfway through. Smaller chicken legs will be closer to 18 minutes, while larger chicken legs will be closer to 22 minutes. You can also air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, flip them over, and then cook for another 8 minutes.

The internal temperature of the chicken should be at least 165°F when checked with an instant-read thermometer. The chicken is done cooking when it hits an internal temperature of 165°F at the thickest point without touching the bone.

How to get crispy chicken skin in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook chicken legs in an air fryer. To get crispy chicken skin, there are a few steps you can follow. Firstly, pat the chicken legs dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This is important because too much moisture can cause the skin to steam, preventing the Maillard reaction that gives the chicken its desirable colour and taste. Next, you can add seasoning. A simple option is to just sprinkle salt on both sides of the chicken legs. Alternatively, you can use a combination of brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, mustard, and cayenne. You can also try garlic salt, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika. Drizzle oil over the chicken legs and toss to evenly coat them with the seasoning and oil.

Now, preheat your air fryer to 380°F–400°F, following the manufacturer's instructions. Place the chicken legs in the air fryer basket in a single layer to allow the heat to circulate evenly and cook the chicken thoroughly. Use the “air fry” setting and cook at 380°F–400°F for 18–22 minutes for regular-sized chicken legs. For smaller chicken legs, 18 minutes should be enough, while larger legs might need up to 22 minutes. Flip the chicken legs halfway through the cooking time. If your chicken legs are not browning sufficiently, you can increase the temperature to 400°F for the final few minutes.

To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature at the thickest point of the meat has reached 165°F. If you are cooking chicken legs in batches, remember to empty out the air fryer bin between batches to prevent smoking.

Chicken leg seasoning and marinade ideas

Chicken legs are a versatile dish that can be seasoned and marinated in a variety of ways to suit your taste. Here are some ideas for seasoning and marinade combinations to try:

Cajun Seasoning

For a spicy kick, try using Cajun seasoning on your chicken legs. This blend typically includes a mix of peppers, onion, garlic, and other spices. You can either purchase a pre-made Cajun seasoning blend or make your own by mixing together the desired spices. Apply the seasoning generously to the chicken legs before placing them in the air fryer.

Sweet and Savory Marinade

Create a sweet and savory flavor profile by marinating your chicken legs in a combination of honey and garlic. This marinade is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of sweet and savory notes in their dishes. You can also add other ingredients such as soy sauce, ginger, or lemon juice to enhance the flavor.

Barbecue Sauce

If you're a fan of barbecue, brush your chicken legs with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will give the chicken a nice charred appearance and a tangy, smoky flavor. You can also add other ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, or smoked paprika to intensify the barbecue taste.

Spicy Cayenne Marinade

For those who enjoy a spicy kick, create a marinade with cayenne pepper as the star ingredient. Mix cayenne with other spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to create a well-rounded flavor profile. You can adjust the amount of cayenne to your preferred spice level. This marinade will give your chicken legs a nice red color and a spicy kick.

Italian Seasoning

Transport yourself to the heart of Italy with an Italian seasoning blend. This combination typically includes herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary, along with garlic and other spices. You can purchase an Italian seasoning blend or create your own mix. This seasoning is perfect for those who want to add a Mediterranean flair to their chicken legs.

Remember, when using marinades, it is recommended to marinate the chicken legs for several hours or even overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat fully. Additionally, always ensure that your chicken legs are cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to guarantee food safety. Enjoy experimenting with these seasoning and marinade ideas to create delicious and juicy air-fried chicken legs!

How to reheat chicken legs in an air fryer

Reheating chicken legs in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy your leftovers. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving crispy and juicy chicken legs:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Legs

Start by taking your refrigerated leftover chicken legs. If your chicken has been sitting in sauce, remove it before reheating as the sauce can make the skin soggy. You can also pat the chicken legs dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set the air fryer to a temperature between 350-375°F (182-190°C). Preheat it for a few minutes to ensure it is hot enough to crisp up the chicken.

Step 3: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Step 4: Season the Chicken (Optional)

You can add more seasoning to the chicken legs for extra flavor. Try spices, seasoning blends like Cajun or Italian, or even a curry mix.

Step 5: Place the Chicken in the Air Fryer Basket

Arrange the chicken legs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don't touch. This will help them reheat evenly.

Step 6: Reheat the Chicken

Reheat the chicken legs for 5-10 minutes, depending on their size. For smaller pieces, 5-7 minutes should be enough, while larger pieces may need up to 10 minutes. Flip the chicken legs halfway through to ensure even heating.

Step 7: Check for Doneness

To ensure the chicken is thoroughly heated, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to be considered safe to eat.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Your chicken legs are now ready to be enjoyed! They will be crispy on the outside and moist and juicy on the inside.

What to serve with chicken legs

Chicken legs are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Starchy Sides

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that pairs well with the juicy chicken legs. You can even add garlic to your mashed potatoes for an extra punch of flavor.
• Mac and cheese: This cheesy, creamy dish is a perfect side to balance out the crispiness of the chicken legs.
• Baked beans: Whether you prefer them hot or cold, baked beans are a flavorful addition to your plate.
• Rice: There are several types of rice dishes that can complement your chicken legs. Jollof rice, a classic West African dish with fragrant tomato-based sauce and spices, is one option. You could also try Indian lemon rice, with its tangy lemon juice and fresh cilantro flavors. Cilantro lime rice is another refreshing choice, especially when served with Mexican-inspired dishes.
• Fries: Air fryer french fries can be a great crispy companion to your juicy chicken legs.

Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables: Vibrant roasted veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, and potatoes can add a healthy crunch to your meal.
• Salads: A fresh garden salad or chickpea salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and herbs can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty chicken legs.
• Grilled veggie skewers: Fire up the grill for some colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, seasoned with salt and pepper for a smoky flavor.
• Green beans: Sautéed or fresh, green beans can add a nutritious touch to your meal.
• Corn: Whether it's corn on the cob or something different, corn can be a sweet and tasty side dish.

Other Options

• Coleslaw: A classic side dish, coleslaw can be made in a variety of ways, from healthy to Asian-inspired.
• Bread: From garlic bread to Texas toast, a slice of bread can round out your meal.

With so many options to choose from, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal to accompany your air-fried chicken legs.

Frequently asked questions