1. Prepare the Chicken Legs:
- Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels. This helps ensure crispy skin when cooking.
2. Season the Chicken Legs:
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
3. Coat the Chicken Legs:
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken legs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
5. Air Fry the Chicken Legs:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the seasoned chicken legs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, with space between each piece for even cooking.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. Cooking time may vary based on the size of the chicken legs and your air fryer model. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve:
- Remove the chicken legs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve hot.
Tips for Success:
- Crispy Skin: Ensure the chicken legs are dry before seasoning to achieve crispy skin.
- Spacing: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow air to circulate around the chicken legs for even cooking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Customize the seasoning to your preference by adjusting the amount of spices or adding additional herbs.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these crispy air fryer chicken legs with your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Pair with dipping sauces like barbecue sauce or honey mustard for added flavor.
Conclusion:
This air fryer chicken legs recipe delivers tender and flavorful chicken with a satisfying crispy skin, all achieved with minimal oil and fuss. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, these chicken legs are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of cooking chicken legs in your air fryer!