Description

This Air Fryer Chicken Legs recipe delivers perfectly crispy and flavorful drumsticks with a mix of aromatic spices. Quick and easy to prepare, the air fryer cooks the chicken to juicy perfection with minimal oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying. Ideal for a simple weeknight dinner, these chicken legs are seasoned with garlic, paprika, and oregano, providing a deliciously smoky and savory taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

8 chicken drumsticks
2 tablespoons olive oil

Seasonings

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps in achieving a crispy skin. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Apply oil and seasonings: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the drumsticks and toss well to coat evenly. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture over the chicken and rub it thoroughly to cover all sides.
Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 5 minutes. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.
Arrange and cook: Place the drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding to allow hot air circulation. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking time.
Check doneness and rest: Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. Once cooked, remove the drumsticks and let them rest for a few minutes before serving to retain juices.

Notes

Chicken thighs can be used instead of drumsticks for a different texture and slightly different cooking time.
For extra crispy skin, lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray before placing it in the air fryer.
Adjust the seasoning quantities to suit your personal taste preferences.