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Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs: Easy Air Fried Drumsticks

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that combines succulent meat with a delectable, crispy skin, look no further than air fryer chicken legs. These easy air fried drumsticks are perfect for those busy weeknights or as a delicious snack for your next gathering. With a fuss-free recipe that delivers sensational flavour and texture, you’ll soon see why air frying has taken the culinary world by storm.

Why Choose Air Fryer Chicken Legs?

Air frying allows you to enjoy all the joys of fried chicken without the excess oil and guilt often associated with frying. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, giving it that coveted crispiness while keeping the inside moist and tender. Moreover, it’s a faster cooking method than traditional oven baking, making it a convenient option for busy cooks.

Ingredients

To whip up these crispy air fryer chicken legs, you will need the following ingredients:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet, depending on your preference)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as thyme or oregano)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for added heat

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Begin by patting your chicken legs dry with kitchen paper. This step is essential as it removes excess moisture, helping the skin to crisp up beautifully.

2. Season: In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Add the chicken legs to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mix.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for around 3 to 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect crispy finish.

4. Air Fry the Chicken Legs: Once preheated, arrange the seasoned chicken legs in the air fryer basket in a single layer to allow proper air circulation. You may need to cook them in batches if your air fryer cannot accommodate all 8 drumsticks at once.

5. Cook: Air fry the chicken legs for about 25 to 30 minutes. Turn them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they brown evenly. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and has a beautiful golden-brown hue on the outside.

6. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken legs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite every time.

Serving Suggestions

These air fried chicken legs are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the meal by pairing them with your favourite sides. Consider serving them with buttery mashed potatoes, a fresh garden salad, or some roasted vegetables for a complete dining experience. Alternatively, serve them as a tasty appetizer with your preferred dipping sauces, such as BBQ, ranch, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

Conclusion

Perfectly crispy air fryer chicken legs are not only easy to make but also offer a wholesome alternative to traditional fried chicken. With minimal preparation and a short cooking time, you’ll have a delightful meal that satisfies both the palate and the busy lifestyle. So, grab your air fryer, and treat yourself to a delicious and crispy dinner that is bound to impress!

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