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Crispy & Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Legs

When it comes to cooking chicken legs, achieving that perfect balance between crispy skin and juicy meat can often be a challenge. Enter the air fryer, a versatile kitchen appliance that has taken the culinary world by storm. With its ability to circulate hot air, the air fryer promises a healthier alternative to traditional frying while still delivering that mouthwatering crunch we all crave. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create delectable, crispy, and juicy chicken legs in your air fryer – a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients

To make crispy and juicy air fryer chicken legs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for added heat

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation

Begin by patting the chicken legs dry with paper towels. This is an essential step as it removes excess moisture that can prevent the skin from crisping up nicely. Once dry, place the chicken legs in a large bowl.

Step 2: Seasoning

In a separate bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne, if you’re using it. This aromatic blend will give the chicken legs a rich flavour while enhancing that crispiness.

Pour the seasoning mix over the chicken legs, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated. You can use your hands to rub the spices into the skin for maximum flavour.

Step 3: Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). Preheating is vital to ensure that the chicken legs start cooking immediately when placed in the basket, promoting that coveted crispy skin.

Step 4: Cooking

Arrange the chicken legs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave enough space between each leg for air circulation. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

Cook the chicken legs for 25 to 30 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 75°C (165°F) for safe consumption. If you want extra crispiness, you can increase the temperature to 220°C (430°F) in the last few minutes of cooking.

Step 5: Resting

Once cooked, remove the chicken legs from the air fryer and allow them to rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent and tender.

Step 6: Serving

Serve your crispy and juicy air fryer chicken legs with your choice of sides. They pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or fluffy mashed potatoes. Don’t forget your favourite dipping sauces – barbecue, ranch, or honey mustard can elevate the dish even further!

Conclusion

The air fryer has revolutionised the way we prepare many of our favourite dishes, and these crispy and juicy chicken legs are no exception. With minimal oil and maximum flavour, this recipe is not only easy to make but also a healthier alternative to traditional frying. Whether you’re cooking a casual weeknight dinner or preparing for a gathering, these chicken legs are bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the delightful experience of crispy skin and juicy meat with every bite!

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