- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce.
- Submerge the chicken legs in the mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for better flavor and tenderness.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Dredge the Chicken:
- Remove each chicken leg from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off.
- Dredge each leg in the flour mixture until well coated. For extra crispiness, you can dip them back into the buttermilk and then into the flour again.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is essential as it helps start the cooking process immediately, ensuring crispy skin.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the chicken legs in the basket in a single layer. Make sure they do not touch to allow for proper air circulation.
- Spray the chicken legs lightly with cooking spray or olive oil to help achieve a golden color.
- Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the chicken legs and cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking.
- Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfection:
- Marination Time: Marinating the chicken not only flavors it but also tenderizes it, making it juicier.
- Spraying Oil: Lightly spraying the chicken with oil before air frying will help you achieve that desired crispy exterior.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the chicken legs in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results.
Enjoy your air fryer fried chicken legs, a delicious and healthier take on a comfort food favorite that is sure to satisfy your cravings!