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Homemade Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs (Drumsticks) photo

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs (Drumsticks)

This Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs recipe is a game-changer! Juicy, flavorful, and irresistibly crunchy, it's perfect for any night!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:
  • 4-6 pieces chicken legs (drumsticks)
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Meat thermometer
  • Tongs

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. Start by patting the chicken legs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps achieve that crispy texture.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the paprika, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle in the olive oil and mix until you have a paste.
  3. Add the chicken legs to the bowl and toss them in the seasoning mixture until they are well coated. Make sure each drumstick is evenly covered for maximum flavor.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the chicken legs start cooking immediately when they hit the basket.
  5. Place the seasoned chicken legs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).
  6. Once done, remove the chicken legs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy meat. Serve them hot with your favorite sides!

Notes

  • Store leftover chicken legs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze leftover chicken legs for up to 3 months for longer storage.
  • Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.