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Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Legs: Family Food on the Table

When it comes to quick and delicious weeknight meals, few dishes can rival the succulent goodness of BBQ chicken legs. Thanks to the air fryer, you can achieve that crispy, caramelised exterior and juicy, tender meat in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional cooking methods. With minimal preparation and a handful of ingredients, these Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Legs will have the family flocking to the dinner table.

Why Choose the Air Fryer?

The air fryer has revolutionised home cooking by allowing you to enjoy your favourite fried foods with a fraction of the oil, making it a healthier alternative. It circulates hot air around the food, creating a crispy texture without the need for deep frying. This means you can indulge in the rich flavours of BBQ chicken legs with less guilt and hassle.

Ingredients

For this simple recipe, you will need:

• 8 chicken legs (drumsticks)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavour)
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavour)

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken Legs: Begin by patting the chicken legs dry with kitchen paper. This step is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy skin. Once dry, place them in a large mixing bowl.

2. Season: Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using) to the chicken. Toss everything together until the legs are evenly coated in the seasoning.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for about 5 minutes. This step helps to ensure that the chicken starts cooking evenly right from the beginning.

4. Arrange in the Basket: Place the seasoned chicken legs into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they have a little space between them to allow the hot air to circulate effectively.

5. Cook: Air fry the chicken legs at 180°C for 25 to 30 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking. The legs are done once they reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and the skin is beautifully golden brown.

6. Add BBQ Sauce: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the BBQ sauce generously over the chicken legs. This will give them that sticky, flavourful glaze you love. You can cook them for an additional minute or two to let the sauce caramelise slightly.

7. Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken legs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite remains juicy and flavourful.

Serving Suggestions

These Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Legs are incredibly versatile. Serve them with a side of coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a flavour boost, consider sprinkling some fresh herbs, such as parsley or coriander, over the top before serving.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Legs are the perfect solution for busy families looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. With ease of preparation, shorter cooking times, and the joy of a crispy exterior and juicy interior, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favourite. So why not fire up your air fryer and treat your family to this delightful dish tonight? You might just find that it becomes a staple in your family’s dining repertoire!