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–+ servings
Sheila Browder

Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Before diving into the mouthwatering world of air fryer chicken legs, let's chat about what you can pair this dish with. Picture a sunny afternoon. You've got your perfectly cooked chicken legs sizzling right beside a vibrant Italian pasta salad.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 whole chicken legs: The star of the show. Choose fresh or thawed for the best results.
  • 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar: This adds a lovely sweetness that balances the spices.
  • 1½ teaspoons kosher salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle kick.
  • 1 teaspoon dry ground mustard powder: Offers a subtle tanginess.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Because garlic makes everything better.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked sweet paprika: Provides a lovely smoky flavor.
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne chili powder: A pinch of heat to spice things up.
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Helps in achieving that golden crispiness.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme: This herb introduces a delicate depth.
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar: Not just for salads; it tenderizes the chicken while adding brightness.

Equipment

  • Air fryer

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. First, I always start by rinsing the chicken legs under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the skin get nice and crispy in the air fryer.
Step 2: Mix the Seasoning
  1. In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, salt, black pepper, mustard powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, thyme, and vegetable oil. Stir the mixture until it’s well combined. The smell is already intoxicating.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
  1. Toss the chicken legs in your seasoning blend. Make sure every piece is coated. It’s like giving the chicken a warm hug—every inch matters. You can use your hands or a brush. I often use my hands for a personal touch, but if you’re not a fan of mess, gloves are your friend.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Preheating helps to achieve that ultra-crispy skin. It’s a step I never skip.
Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken Legs
  1. Arrange the chicken legs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them; space is essential for even cooking. Cook for 25-30 minutes. I often flip them halfway through to ensure that golden color appears all around.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
  1. Once the timer goes off, check the internal temperature. It should read at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. If they need more time, pop them back in for a few more minutes.
Step 7: Let Rest and Serve
  1. After you’ve achieved chicken perfection, let the legs rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Serve with your chosen sides, and don’t forget to enjoy every last bite!

Nutrition

Calories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 77gFat: 17.4gSaturated Fat: 5.7gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 305mgSodium: 729mgSugar: 4gVitamin A: 7IUCalcium: 4mgIron: 22mg

Notes

Let’s break down these ingredients:
  • Chicken Legs: They’re juicy and flavorful. Unlike chicken breasts, they stay moist during cooking.
  • Brown Sugar: This creates a caramelized crust, making the chicken irresistible.
  • Kosher Salt: Coarse salt helps to draw moisture from the chicken, creating a brining effect.
  • Black Pepper: Freshly ground is key for a punch of flavor.
  • Ground Mustard Powder: A small amount goes a long way. It adds excitement without overpowering the dish.
  • Garlic Powder: For those of us who can't get enough garlic, this is a must-have.
  • Smoked Sweet Paprika: It brings a mild smokiness that complements the other spices perfectly.
  • Cayenne Chili Powder: You control the heat with this spice. Start small if you're unsure.
  • Vegetable Oil: It enhances crispiness and flavor. Feel free to substitute with olive oil for added richness.
  • Dried Thyme: It’s aromatic and earthy. Fresh thyme works as well.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient is a game-changer. It not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken moist.

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