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Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters (Thighs & Drumsticks)

Air fryer cooking has taken kitchens by storm, offering a health-conscious alternative to traditional frying while delivering a satisfyingly crispy finish. Among the myriad of dishes one can prepare in an air fryer, chicken leg quarters stand out as a popular choice. This cut of chicken, incorporating both the thigh and drumstick, is not only succulent but also versatile, making it an ideal option for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Why Choose Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters?

Cooking chicken leg quarters in an air fryer presents several advantages:

1. Healthier Cooking Method: The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, allowing it to brown and crisp up without the need for excessive oil. This means you get to enjoy the mouth-watering texture of fried chicken with less fat.

2. Quick Cooking Time: Air fryers are known for their efficiency; they can cook chicken leg quarters in significantly less time than a conventional oven. This makes them perfect for families or anyone with a bustling schedule.

3. Retained Juiciness: The design of the air fryer helps seal in moisture. Chicken leg quarters tend to remain tender and juicy rather than dry out during the cooking process.

4. Easy Clean-Up: Unlike traditional frying, air frying means less mess as there’s no splatter from hot oil. Most air fryer components are also dishwasher-safe, making clean-up a breeze.

Preparing Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters

Here’s a simple recipe to prepare scrumptious air fryer chicken leg quarters that will leave your taste buds singing.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken leg quarters (thighs and drumsticks)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or herbs of your choice)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: Fresh herbs and lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that desired crunch.

2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels—this helps to achieve a crispier skin. In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.

3. Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken leg quarters to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the marinade. Allow them to rest for about 15-30 minutes if time permits; this will enhance the flavour.

4. Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the marinated chicken leg quarters in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are laid out in a single layer without overlap. This allows the hot air to circulate effectively for even cooking.

5. Cook: Set the air fryer to cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).

6. Serve: Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and succulent. Serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, salad, or chips.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters

• Marination: For added flavour depth, marinate the chicken overnight in the fridge.

• Spice Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings or spice blends to match your taste. Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, or even a jerk spice mix can offer delightful variations.

• Crispy Skin: For extra crispy skin, consider spritzing with a little cooking spray halfway through the cooking process.

Conclusion

Air fryer chicken leg quarters are an excellent addition to any dinner repertoire – offering the perfect combination of convenience, health, and superb taste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward and sure to impress. So adapt it to your tastes, and enjoy the delicious outcome of your air frying adventure!