Air Fryer Chicken Legs: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Chicken legs are a versatile dish that can be cooked in many ways, but did you know that you can also cook them in an air fryer? Air-fried chicken legs are a quick, convenient, and easy way to get that fried taste and texture without the oil. They are also a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, requiring little to no oil. In this article, we will explore the different ways to cook chicken legs in an air fryer, the various seasonings and sauces that can be used, and the benefits of using an air fryer. We will also provide tips and tricks for getting the perfect crispy and juicy chicken legs every time.

Chicken leg quarters vs drumsticks

Chicken legs are a popular choice for air fryer enthusiasts due to their versatility and forgiving nature. They can be cooked to a juicy, crispy perfection in a relatively short amount of time. But what about the different cuts of chicken legs? How do chicken leg quarters compare to drumsticks, and can they be cooked in an air fryer?

Chicken leg quarters and drumsticks are two different cuts of chicken legs, with "leg quarters" typically including a thigh, a drumstick, and sometimes a part of the chicken's back. A "drumstick" refers to just the lower portion of the leg, equivalent to the calf. So, when purchasing chicken legs, it's important to clarify whether you're getting the entire leg (drumstick plus thigh) or just the drumstick.

Chicken leg quarters are often a more economical choice, as they require less processing for chicken processors to break them down into smaller pieces. They are usually sold with the bone-in and skin on, which can add flavor when cooking. However, this also means that they may require a bit more preparation if you plan to de-bone and remove the skin before cooking.

Drumsticks, on the other hand, are typically sold individually and are a convenient option if you're looking for a smaller portion or want to control your serving size. They are also a good choice if you prefer dark meat, as they have a higher ratio of meat to bone compared to leg quarters.

When it comes to cooking chicken leg quarters and drumsticks in an air fryer, both cuts can be prepared in a similar manner. It is recommended to cook them in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow for even cooking and maximum crispiness. Preheat your air fryer to 380-400 degrees Fahrenheit, and cook the chicken for 15-22 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure they are fully cooked.

In conclusion, chicken leg quarters and drumsticks offer different portion sizes and meat-to-bone ratios, but both cuts can be successfully cooked in an air fryer. By following similar cooking techniques, you can enjoy juicy, crispy chicken regardless of your preferred cut.

Marinating and seasoning

Once the chicken is coated in oil, it's time to add the seasonings. There are endless combinations of seasonings that you can use to flavour your chicken legs. Some common options include salt, pepper, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, cayenne, and mustard. You can also experiment with different blends such as Cajun, Italian, or even a curry mix. If you want to add a sauce, such as BBQ sauce, it's best to wait until the last few minutes of cooking to slather it on.

To ensure the chicken is evenly coated, sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the oiled chicken and toss until fully coated. You can also place the dry ingredients and chicken in a large zip-top bag and shake it until the chicken is coated. For the best results, allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or even overnight if possible.

Once the chicken has finished marinating, it's ready to be placed in the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to between 380°F and 400°F, depending on the model and your preference. Then, place the chicken legs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, being careful not to crowd them. If your air fryer can't fit all the chicken legs in a single layer, you may need to cook them in batches.

Cooking times and temperatures

Cooking chicken legs in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to prepare a tasty meal. The cooking time and temperature will depend on the size of your chicken legs and the brand of your air fryer.

Most recipes recommend preheating your air fryer to 380–400°F (200°C). One source suggests preheating to 350°F if you are reheating chicken legs. When cooking, the temperature should be around 165°F internally, which can be checked with a meat thermometer. Some sources suggest cooking to temperatures of 185°F.

The cooking time will depend on the size of your chicken legs. Smaller chicken legs will take around 18 minutes, while larger ones will take around 22 minutes. If you are cooking in an oven, the legs will take 20–25 minutes. If you are reheating chicken legs, they will take around 5–8 minutes to warm up.

It is important to flip your chicken legs halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.

Using an air fryer basket

Chicken legs can be cooked in an air fryer and the process is straightforward. First, coat the chicken leg quarters in a little bit of oil, such as olive oil, and season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. You can also add other seasonings like paprika, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper to taste.

Next, place the chicken legs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with no overlapping pieces. This arrangement allows the hot air to circulate and cook the chicken evenly. For skin-on chicken legs, place them skin-side-down in the basket, while for skinless legs, place them with the more rounded side down.

Now, you can set the air fryer to work. Preheat the air fryer to 380-400°F, and then cook the chicken legs for 18-22 minutes, turning them halfway through. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of the chicken legs and the model of your air fryer. For smaller chicken legs, aim for the lower end of the range, and for larger legs, go for the higher end.

Finally, check that the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the thickest part of the meat should reach at least 165°F, and preferably 175°F if you want the meat extra tender. You can use an instant-read thermometer to check this. If the chicken is not yet at the desired temperature, continue cooking in small increments until it is done.

Once the chicken has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 2 minutes before serving. Enjoy your juicy and crispy air-fried chicken legs!

Sauces and dips

While air fryer chicken legs are delicious on their own, sometimes you just want to add a sauce or dip to enhance the flavour or complement the dish.

If you want to add a sauce to the chicken while it cooks, BBQ sauce is a popular choice. However, it's important to wait until the last 2-5 minutes of cooking to slather the chicken legs in sauce. This will prevent the sauce from burning and ensure the chicken is cooked through.

If you're looking for a sauce to dip your chicken legs in, there are several options to choose from. Ranch dressing, hot sauce, cheese sauce, YUM YUM sauce, honey mustard, or your favourite Asian sauce will all pair well with air fryer chicken legs.

For those who prefer a spicier option, you can make a traditional Buffalo Wing Sauce by combining equal parts butter and hot sauce. This will provide an extra robust coating for your chicken legs.

Additionally, you can serve your air fryer chicken legs with sides that complement the dish. Some ideas include beans, corn casserole, Brussels sprouts, or potatoes.

So, whether you're looking for a sauce to cook with, a dip to serve on the side, or a spicy kick, there are plenty of options to elevate your air fryer chicken legs.

Frequently asked questions