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Air Fryer Fried Chicken Legs

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Air Fryer Fried Chicken Legs

Fried chicken legs are a classic comfort food that everyone loves. Using an air fryer, you can achieve the perfect crispy texture without all the oil and mess of traditional frying. This detailed recipe will guide you through making juicy, flavorful, and crispy fried chicken legs in the air fryer. Perfect for a family dinner, picnic, or any occasion, these chicken legs are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

  • 8 chicken legs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Cooking spray or oil

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk and egg until well combined. Add the chicken legs, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
  2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  2. Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken legs from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each chicken leg in the flour mixture, pressing down to ensure it adheres well. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

  1. Arrange the Chicken in the Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil. Place the breaded chicken legs in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not touching.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Cook the chicken legs at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken legs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces and sides.

See also  Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos Chicken

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Fried Chicken Legs

  • Marinate Longer: For extra juicy and flavorful chicken, marinate the legs in the buttermilk mixture overnight.
  • Even Coating: Ensure each chicken leg is evenly coated with the flour mixture for consistent crispiness.
  • Do Not Overcrowd: Cook the chicken legs in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
  • Spray with Oil: Lightly spray the chicken legs with cooking spray or oil before cooking to help achieve a golden, crispy crust.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs or breasts instead?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they may cook faster than bone-in chicken legs.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken legs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to make this recipe gluten-free.

What dipping sauces go well with fried chicken legs?

Fried chicken legs pair well with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, and hot sauce.

Can I make this recipe without buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Fried Chicken Legs are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. With their crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful meat, these chicken legs are sure to become a favorite in your household. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with a crispy twist. Enjoy your crispy, golden chicken legs with your favorite sides and dipping sauces, and savor every bite!

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