11 Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs Recipes to Satisfy Your Cravings

Air fryer chicken legs offer a quick, tasty solution for dinner. This blog shares 11 recipes. Each one delivers crispy skin and juicy meat. You save time with an air fryer. No deep frying means less mess.

These recipes use simple ingredients. They suit beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Expect bold flavors like spicy buffalo or sweet honey garlic.

Every recipe includes a short about section, full ingredient list, and clear steps. You can pick a favorite or try them all. Cooking stays easy and fun. Your cravings get satisfied with every bite.

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Recipe 1: Classic Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs

About:
Classic crispy air fryer chicken legs bring simple, timeless flavor. This recipe uses basic spices. You get golden, crunchy skin without oil splatter. It cooks fast—perfect for busy nights. The air fryer locks in juices. Everyone enjoys this straightforward dish. Kids and adults love the crisp bite. Pair it with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. This version proves you don’t need fancy extras for great taste.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
2. Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
3. Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a bowl.
4. Rub olive oil over chicken.
5. Sprinkle spice mix evenly on all sides.
6. Place chicken in air fryer basket in a single layer.
7. Cook for 25 minutes.
8. Flip chicken halfway through cooking.
9. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F.
10. Remove chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes.
11. Serve hot and enjoy.

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Recipe 2: Spicy Buffalo Air Fryer Chicken Legs

About:
Spicy buffalo air fryer chicken legs pack a fiery punch. This recipe uses tangy hot sauce. You get crispy skin with a bold kick. It’s great for game day or spice lovers. The air fryer keeps cooking fast and clean. Pair it with ranch dip or celery sticks. This dish wakes up your taste buds. Expect heat and crunch in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
2. Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
3. Sprinkle salt and pepper over chicken.
4. Place chicken in air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 20 minutes.
6. Flip chicken halfway through cooking.
7. Mix buffalo sauce, melted butter, and garlic powder in a bowl.
8. Remove chicken and brush sauce mixture over each piece.
9. Return chicken to air fryer.
10. Cook for 5 more minutes.
11. Serve hot with dipping sauce.

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Recipe 3: Honey Garlic Air Fryer Chicken Legs

About:
Honey garlic air fryer chicken legs blend sweet and savory. This recipe uses sticky honey and rich garlic. You get crispy skin with a glossy finish. It’s a crowd-pleaser for dinner. The air fryer makes prep simple. Kids love the sweet taste. Adults enjoy the balanced flavors. Serve it with rice or roasted veggies for a full meal.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
2. Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
3. Rub olive oil over chicken.
4. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly.
5. Place chicken in air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 20 minutes.
7. Flip chicken halfway through cooking.
8. Mix honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic in a bowl.
9. Brush mixture over chicken.
10. Cook for 5 more minutes.
11. Serve hot and sticky.

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Recipe 4: Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Legs

About:
Lemon pepper air fryer chicken legs deliver bright, zesty flavor. This recipe uses fresh lemon and cracked pepper. You get crispy skin with a citrus twist. It’s light yet satisfying. The air fryer keeps it quick. This dish works for weeknights or picnics. Pair it with a green salad or fries. Everyone enjoys the tangy bite.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
2. Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
3. Rub olive oil over chicken.
4. Sprinkle salt and lemon pepper seasoning evenly.
5. Place chicken in air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 25 minutes.
7. Flip chicken halfway through cooking.
8. Squeeze lemon juice over chicken after cooking.
9. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F.
10. Remove chicken and rest for 5 minutes.
11. Serve fresh and zesty.

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Recipe 5: BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Legs

About:
BBQ air fryer chicken legs bring smoky, sweet goodness. This recipe uses your favorite BBQ sauce. You get crispy skin with a sticky glaze. It’s perfect for summer vibes indoors. The air fryer skips the grill mess. Serve it with coleslaw or corn. Friends and family love this classic taste. Every bite feels like a cookout.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
2. Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
3. Rub olive oil over chicken.
4. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly.
5. Place chicken in air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 20 minutes.
7. Flip chicken halfway through cooking.
8. Brush BBQ sauce over chicken.
9. Cook for 5 more minutes.
10. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F.
11. Serve hot and saucy.

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Recipe 6: Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Legs

About:
Garlic parmesan air fryer chicken legs offer cheesy, garlicky joy. This recipe uses grated parmesan and fresh garlic. You get crispy skin with a savory crust. It’s a hit for dinner parties. The air fryer keeps it simple. Pair it with pasta or a Caesar salad. Everyone loves the rich flavor. This dish feels indulgent yet easy.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
2. Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
3. Rub olive oil over chicken.
4. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly.
5. Place chicken in air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 20 minutes.
7. Flip chicken halfway through cooking.
8. Mix minced garlic and parmesan in a bowl.
9. Sprinkle mixture over chicken.
10. Cook for 5 more minutes.
11. Serve hot and cheesy.

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Recipe 7: Cajun Air Fryer Chicken Legs

About:
Cajun air fryer chicken legs spice up your plate. This recipe uses a Cajun seasoning blend. You get crispy skin with a warm kick. It’s great for bold flavor fans. The air fryer makes it fast. Serve it with rice or cornbread. This dish brings Southern flair home. Every bite packs a punch.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
2. Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
3. Rub olive oil over chicken.
4. Sprinkle salt and Cajun seasoning evenly.
5. Place chicken in air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 25 minutes.
7. Flip chicken halfway through cooking.
8. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F.
9. Remove chicken and rest for 5 minutes.
10. Serve hot and spicy.
11. Enjoy the bold taste.

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Recipe 8: Teriyaki Air Fryer Chicken Legs

About:
Teriyaki air fryer chicken legs mix sweet and salty. This recipe uses a homemade teriyaki glaze. You get crispy skin with a shiny coat. It’s perfect for Asian-inspired meals. The air fryer keeps it quick. Serve it with steamed rice or veggies. Kids and adults enjoy the sticky goodness. This dish feels fresh and fun.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
2. Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
3. Rub olive oil over chicken.
4. Sprinkle salt evenly.
5. Place chicken in air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 20 minutes.
7. Flip chicken halfway through cooking.
8. Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar in a bowl.
9. Brush mixture over chicken.
10. Cook for 5 more minutes.
11. Serve hot and glazed.

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Recipe 9: Ranch Air Fryer Chicken Legs

About:
Ranch air fryer chicken legs deliver cool, tangy flavor. This recipe uses ranch seasoning. You get crispy skin with a creamy twist. It’s a hit with picky eaters. The air fryer makes it fast. Pair it with fries or a cucumber salad. Everyone loves the familiar taste. This dish keeps things simple and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
2. Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
3. Rub olive oil over chicken.
4. Sprinkle salt and ranch seasoning evenly.
5. Place chicken in air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 25 minutes.
7. Flip chicken halfway through cooking.
8. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F.
9. Remove chicken and rest for 5 minutes.
10. Serve hot and tangy.
11. Enjoy the easy flavor.

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Recipe 10: Sweet Chili Air Fryer Chicken Legs

About:
Sweet chili air fryer chicken legs balance heat and sweetness. This recipe uses sweet chili sauce. You get crispy skin with a sticky glaze. It’s great for a fun twist. The air fryer keeps it simple. Serve it with noodles or slaw. Friends love the unique taste. This dish brings excitement to dinner.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
2. Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
3. Rub olive oil over chicken.
4. Sprinkle salt and garlic powder evenly.
5. Place chicken in air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 20 minutes.
7. Flip chicken halfway through cooking.
8. Brush sweet chili sauce over chicken.
9. Cook for 5 more minutes.
10. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F.
11. Serve hot and sticky.

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Recipe 11: Herb-Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Legs

About:
Herb-crusted air fryer chicken legs offer earthy, fresh flavor. This recipe uses dried herbs like thyme and rosemary. You get crispy skin with an aromatic crust. It’s perfect for cozy nights. The air fryer makes it quick. Pair it with roasted potatoes or carrots. Everyone enjoys the garden taste. This dish feels warm and inviting.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
2. Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
3. Rub olive oil over chicken.
4. Sprinkle salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary evenly.
5. Place chicken in air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 25 minutes.
7. Flip chicken halfway through cooking.
8. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F.
9. Remove chicken and rest for 5 minutes.
10. Serve hot and fragrant.
11. Enjoy the herb flavor.