Air Fryer Chicken Legs – thestayathomechef.com

Air fryer chicken legs are not only packed with bold flavors, but we have also included flavor variations like Cajun-spiced, Zesty Tex-Mex, and Flavors of India for you to switch it up and never get bored! The whole family is going to love this one!

Close up view of air fryer chicken legs.

Get ready for a taste explosion with this air fryer chicken legs recipe! With just a simple rub of basic seasonings, these chicken legs are infused with our favorite bold flavors. And for those of you who want to play around with different flavors, we’re including variations like Cajun-spiced, Zesty Tex-Mex, and Flavors of India – your taste buds will never get bored! This recipe is not only delicious but also quick and easy to make. It is a perfect weeknight dinner for busy families or for hosting a game night. All you need is an air fryer, chicken legs, and the seasoning of your choice. In just 20-25 minutes, you’ll have perfectly cooked and juicy legs that are sure to please the whole family. You never have to settle for bland and dry chicken ever again!

How long do I need to cook chicken legs in the air fryer?

It typically takes 20-25 minutes to cook chicken legs in an air fryer, depending on the size of the legs and your air fryer. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Can I use frozen chicken legs?

Yes, you can cook frozen chicken legs in an air fryer. However, it may take a few minutes longer to cook. Make sure to use an internal thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Is oil necessary?

If you are using a variation that does not contain citrus juice, it’s recommended to lightly spritz the drumsticks with cooking oil or melted butter to help them crisp up. But if you are using a variation that contains citrus juice there’s no need to do it.

Can I use different cuts of chicken?

Yes, you absolutely can! Chicken breasts, thighs, or wings will all work well in the air fryer. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and cut of the chicken.

Overhead view of chicken legs in an air fryer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

To store the cooked chicken legs, you will want to let them cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. Properly stored cooked chicken legs will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. It’s best to reheat them in the air fryer or oven to regain the crispness if you want to. If you have any leftover seasoning rub, it can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.

If you like this recipe, you may be interested in these other delicious air fryer recipes:

Overhead view of air fryer chicken legs.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

10 chicken drumsticks
A light spritz of cooking oil or melted butter
2 teaspoons paprika
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 5 minutes.
If using a flavor variation that does not contain citrus juice, lightly spritz the drumsticks with cooking oil or melted butter.
In a small mixing bowl, combine the paprika, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the drumsticks, making sure to cover them evenly. You can also rub the seasoning mixture underneath the skin if desired.
Place the drumsticks in the air fryer and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes. Flip the drumsticks halfway through the cooking time.
Once the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, remove the drumsticks from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For a Cajun-spiced variation:

1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For a Zesty Tex-Mex variation:

Juice of 2 limes (about 1/4 cup)
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt

For a Flavors of India variation:

Juice of 1 lemon (about 1/4 cup)
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Note: There is no need to spritz chicken legs with oil if you are using a flavor variation with citrus juices.