an overhead shot of four crispy air fried chicken drumsticks

These crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs are quick, easy and so much healthier than fried chicken! The whole family will be sure to love this drumstick recipe!

I will be the first to admit that I was skeptical when the air fryer craze began…How could it possibly cook traditionally ‘fried’ foods well without loads of oil? Well, I’m happy to say that I was dead wrong! And these juicy chicken legs are proof! Lovely crispy air-fried chicken drumsticks are one of my new favourite dinners!

Ingredients

This recipe is super simple! There are only six ingredients, including the chicken legs! The rest are everyday spices that most people would already have in their cupboards!

Chicken Legs – Obviously, for making air fryer chicken legs, you’re going to need some drumsticks! But this recipe is also great with wings.

Paprika – Probably one of my favourite combinations is chicken seasoned with paprika! I use regular paprika in this recipe but smoked paprika is great too.

Onion Powder – Onion powder is another great ingredient in just about any spice mix.

Garlic Salt – If you don’t have garlic salt, please get some! It’s such a great seasoning that is perfect with chicken of any kind!

Pepper – There’s not a whole lot to be said about pepper. Pepper is great.

Oil – A little bit of oil just helps to make the chicken cook and crisp up perfectly!

three crispy air fried, golden brown chicken legs

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken

This is a very easy recipe to make! To start, I like to lay the chicken legs on a large plate and drizzle over oil. Next, combine all the spices in a small bowl and sprinkle over drumsticks. Use your hands to make sure the legs are evenly seasoned and bake in the air fryer for 30 minutes. Done!

Helpful Tips and FAQS:

How Long Does it Take to Cook?

Air Fry at 200°C (390°F) for 30 minutes.

Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken?

Yes, you can use just about any cut of skin-on chicken you like! Wings and thighs are great options.

Can I Make These Drumsticks in the Oven?

Yes, you sure can! They will just take longer to cook.

Do I Need to Flip the Legs?

No, there is no need to turn the chicken legs over in the air fryer!

Serving Suggestions

I love these chicken legs just as they are but if you’re looking for a side dish, here are a few great ideas!

an overhead shot of four crispy air fried chicken drumsticks

Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetiser, Main Course
Cuisine Australian
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • 1 Air Fryer

Ingredients
  

  • tbsp garlic salt
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 8 chicken drumsticks

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, combine garlic salt, paprika, onion powder and pepper. Set aside.
  • Lay chicken legs out on a large plate and drizzle with oil. Sprinkle spice mix over chicken and, using your hands, rub all over to evenly coat.
  • Place chicken in air fryer and cook at 200°C for 30 mins. Serve.

Notes

This recipe works just as well with chicken wings and skin-on chicken thighs!
Keyword Air Fryer Recipe, chicken legs, Chicken Recipes, Entertaining, Finger Food, Weeknight Meal

Join the Community

If you want to be up to date with the latest recipes and articles, then Instagram or Facebook is a great place to connect!

Or if you want to join the conversation for recipes, inspiration and friendly chitchat then check out our Facebook Group!