Air Fryer Chicken Legs (Bone-In) – Crispy Juicy Drumsticks
Crispy air fryer chicken drumsticks with juicy meat, golden skin, and simple seasoning.
Quick Facts
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Ingredients
8 chicken drumsticks (about 2–2.5 lb / 900 g–1.1 kg)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp smoked paprika, optional
Directions
1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
2. Pat the chicken legs very dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, toss the drumsticks with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
4. Arrange the chicken legs in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 18 minutes, then flip the drumsticks.
6. Cook for another 12–17 minutes, or until the skin is crisp and the internal temperature reaches at least 175°F (79°C).
7. Let rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.
Notes / Tips
Dry skin = crispier results, so do not skip patting the chicken dry.
Do not overcrowd the basket or the chicken will steam instead of crisp.
If needed, add 2–3 extra minutes at the end for deeper color and crispier skin.
Variations
Add 1/4 tsp cayenne for spicy chicken legs.
Use lemon pepper instead of smoked paprika for a brighter flavor.
Add 1 tbsp brown sugar to the seasoning for a sweeter barbecue-style finish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 330
Protein: 27 g
Fat: 23 g
Carbohydrates: 2 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sugar: 0 g
Sodium: 540 mg
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