Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken Legs

Why you will love this recipe

• High in protein and full of flavor: Thanks to the chicken drumsticks, this meal delivers a satisfying protein punch with a crave-worthy glaze.
• Crispy chicken without deep frying: You’ll get that golden, crispy finish—no oil splatters or deep fryer needed.
• Ready in under 30 minutes: Quick enough for a weeknight dinner but tasty enough to impress anyone at the table.
• Simple ingredients: No fancy shopping list required. Just pantry staples with serious flavor power.
• Easy cleanup: Your air fryer keeps everything tidy while doing all the heavy lifting.

Key ingredients and substitutions

• Chicken drumsticks: Juicy, flavorful, and packed with protein. You can swap in chicken thighs, chicken breasts, or even chicken tenders—just adjust the cook time depending on the cut.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and depth. Regular paprika works too, or try chili powder for extra heat.
• Garlic powder: Brings a savory, garlicky kick without chopping. You can sub in onion powder or use both for layered flavor.
• Salt and black pepper: The basics for seasoning—don’t skip these. Start with less salt if your hot sauce is on the salty side.
• Hot sauce: This brings the heat and balances the sweetness of the honey. Any hot sauce works—use your favorite based on spice level.
• Honey: Sticky, sweet, and perfect for glazing. You could use maple syrup in a pinch, but honey gives that signature texture.

How to make air fryer hot honey chicken legs

1. Preheat your air fryer: Set it to 200°C/392°F for 25 minutes and let it heat up for 5 minutes while you prep the chicken.
2. Pat the chicken dry: Use paper towels to get the drumsticks nice and dry—this helps them crisp up better.

3. Season generously: In a large bowl, mix together the black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt and then toss the drumsticks into the mixture until evenly coated.

4. Arrange in a single layer: Place the drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer—no overlapping. If needed, cook in batches for even results.
5. Cook the first side: Air fry for 10 minutes, then flip the drumsticks using tongs.
6. Cook the second side: Air fry for another 8 minutes to get that crispy, golden skin.

7. Make the hot honey sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the honey, hot sauce, and garlic powder.
8. Glaze and finish: Open the basket, brush the hot honey sauce over the drumsticks, flip them, and brush the other side too.

7. Final blast in the air fryer: Cook for 2 more minutes to set the glaze.
8. Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temp hits 75°C/165°F. That means you’re good to go!
9. Rest and enjoy: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before digging in to keep it juicy.

Recipe notes and tips

• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Give each drumstick space so the hot air can circulate—hello, crispy skin.
• Use tongs, not fingers: That air fryer gets hot fast, and flipping with tongs keeps things safe and clean.
• Adjust spice to taste: Go mild or wild with the hot sauce. It’s easy to scale the heat.
• Double the sauce if you want extra: That hot honey glaze is magic. If you’re serving a crowd (or just love dipping), make a little more.
• Make ahead: You can season the chicken and refrigerate it up to a day in advance. Cook and glaze when ready.

Variations

• Use chicken thighs or breasts: Boneless or bone-in cuts work great—just adjust the cook time based on thickness.
• Swap in chicken tenders: Perfect for a faster cook and great for kids or quick lunches.
• Make it extra spicy: Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or chili powder to the spice mix or amp up the hot sauce.
• Oven-bake instead: No air fryer? No problem. Use a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden and cooked through.
• Buttered hot honey: Melt a little butter into the hot honey sauce for an extra rich, sticky finish.

What to serve with this recipe

• Veggies: Roasted potatoes, sweet potato wedges, air-fried green beans, broccoli salad, or brussels sprouts all pair perfectly.
• Carbs: Fluffy rice, garlic butter noodles, cornbread, mac and cheese, or warm dinner rolls add comfort and balance.
• Dips & sauces: Serve with extra hot honey sauce, ranch, blue cheese, cottage cheese taco dip, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.

Frequently asked questions