Crispy Skin Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chicken legs come out perfectly cooked every time—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. No need to heat up the oven or deal with messy oil. The air fryer makes cleanup a breeze, and the result rivals traditional fried chicken without the added fat. Plus, they’re easy to season however you like and go with almost any side.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken drumsticks (skin-on)
• Olive oil or cooking spray
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika (or smoked paprika for more flavor)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: cayenne pepper or chili powder for heat
• Fresh herbs or lemon wedges for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
2. Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
3. In a bowl, toss the drumsticks with olive oil and all the seasonings until evenly coated.
4. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for air circulation.
5. Air fry for 10 minutes, flip the drumsticks, then cook for another 10–12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and browned.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people (about 2 drumsticks per serving). Prep time is 5 minutes, and cooking time is 20–22 minutes, for a total time of approximately 25–30 minutes.

Variations

• Use a spice blend like Cajun, lemon pepper, or barbecue seasoning for different flavor profiles.
• Marinate the drumsticks in buttermilk and spices for a few hours before air frying for extra tenderness.
• Brush with buffalo sauce, honey garlic, or BBQ sauce in the last 5 minutes of cooking for a saucy finish.
• Try with chicken thighs or wings, adjusting cook time as needed.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4–5 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the skin soggy. You can also freeze the cooked drumsticks for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How do I make the skin extra crispy?

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning, don’t overcrowd the air fryer, and make sure to cook at a high temperature.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Yes, preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve a crispier skin.

Can I use frozen drumsticks?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and air frying.

What temperature should the chicken be when done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part.

Can I stack the drumsticks?

No, it’s best to place them in a single layer so air circulates properly and the skin crisps up.

What oil should I use?

Olive oil or avocado oil work well; just a light coating helps the skin crisp and the seasonings stick.

Are these healthy?

Yes, air frying uses minimal oil, making it a healthier option than deep frying.

Can I make them spicy?

Absolutely—add cayenne, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix.

Can I use chicken thighs or wings?

Yes, just adjust the cook time slightly depending on the cut and size.

Do I need to flip the chicken?

Yes, flipping halfway ensures even cooking and crisping on all sides.

Conclusion

Crispy Skin Air Fryer Chicken Legs are an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that delivers all the satisfaction of fried chicken with a fraction of the effort and oil. With just a few ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you can enjoy golden, juicy drumsticks any night of the week. Whether served with classic sides or tossed in your favorite sauce, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Crispy Skin Air Fryer Chicken Legs

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Crispy Skin Air Fryer Chicken Legs are juicy, flavorful drumsticks with a golden, crispy exterior—made easily and quickly in the air fryer. A healthier alternative to fried chicken, perfect for busy nights or casual meals.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 22 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings (2 drumsticks per serving)
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Air Fryer
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks (skin-on)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder
• Fresh herbs or lemon wedges for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
2. Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, toss drumsticks with olive oil and all seasonings until well coated.
4. Place the drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket with space between each.
5. Air fry for 10 minutes, flip each drumstick, and cook for another 10–12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is crispy.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

• For extra crispy skin, ensure chicken is fully dry before seasoning.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer; cook in batches if needed.
• Use smoked paprika for added flavor depth.
• Add your favorite sauce in the last few minutes for a glazed finish.
• Great with classic sides like coleslaw, corn, or potatoes.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 drumsticks
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 130mg