Description
This easy and flavorful Air Fryer Chicken Legs recipe delivers crispy, juicy chicken with a deliciously spiced brown sugar rub. Perfectly cooked in just over 30 minutes, these chicken legs are a quick weeknight meal or a tasty weekend treat that pairs well with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 6 chicken legs
Spice Mix
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 1.5 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp ground mustard
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Additional
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or substitute with olive or avocado oil)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken legs dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, ensuring crispiness during cooking.
- Make the Spice Mix: In a large zip-top bag, combine brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, ground mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Close the bag and shake to thoroughly mix the spices.
- Season the Chicken: Add the chicken legs to the zip-top bag with the spice mix. Pour in the vegetable oil and shake the bag until the chicken legs are evenly coated with the spice mixture and oil.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure it is hot and ready for cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken legs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 380°F for 18-22 minutes, turning the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispiness. Cook until the internal temperature reaches between 165°F and 185°F.
- Serve: Remove the chicken legs from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite sides and dipping sauces for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken legs are in a single layer in the air fryer to allow proper air circulation and even cooking.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper according to desired spice level or omit for a milder flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature has reached at least 165°F for safe consumption.
- Let the cooked chicken rest a few minutes before serving to retain juices.
- You can substitute vegetable oil with olive or avocado oil for a healthier fat option.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
