Air Fryer Chicken Legs

These air fryer chicken drumsticks come out with the perfect crunch on the outside and juicy tenderness on the inside, all with a few easy ingredients. Start with a punchy spice blend of paprika, garlic powder, and a dash of black pepper to bring on some bold flavors. This quick-fix dinner is not just easy to make, it's low-carb, packed with protein, and ready in under 30 minutes.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Course Main Course

Servings drumsticks

Calories 119

Protein 13

Ingredients

1.1 kg chicken drumsticks - about 2.5 lbs
1 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2-1 tsp salt

Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer to 200°C/392°F, and set the time to 25 minutes, allowing it to heat for 5 minutes.
Strain the drumsticks in a strainer and pat them dry with a paper towel.
1.1 kg chicken drumsticks
Place the drumsticks in a mixing bowl along with the spices and mix them well together.
1 tsp ground black pepper, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2-1 tsp salt
After the air fryer has heated for 5 minutes, place the drumsticks in the air fryer and cook for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, remove the air fryer basket from the air fryer and turn the drumsticks with tongs.
Close the basket and air fry for another 10 minutes.
Make sure the chicken is cooked through by checking it with a meat thermometer. It should read 75°C/165°F.

Notes

Pat the chicken dry: Removing excess moisture with a paper towel helps the skin crisp up instead of steaming.
Don’t overcrowd the basket: Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer so the hot air can circulate properly.
Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 75°C/165°F for safe and juicy results.
Flip for even crispiness: Turning the drumsticks halfway through ensures they cook evenly on all sides.
Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add cayenne pepper for heat or swap smoked paprika for a milder flavor.

Storage instructions:

Refrigerator: Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, place cooled drumsticks in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To keep them crispy, reheat in the air fryer at 180°C/350°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Avoid sogginess: If reheating in the microwave, the skin won’t be as crispy, so the air fryer or oven is the best choice.