Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Crispy, glossy air fryer chicken drumsticks garnished with fresh parsley.

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These easy air fryer chicken legs turn out juicy, tender, and full of flavor. They cook in just 15 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a quick, tasty dinner everyone will love! Be sure to check out my video guide and tips for juicy chicken drumsticks in your air fryer every time.

Prep Time10

Cook Time15

Marinating Time30

Total Time55

Course: Chicken

Cuisine: Asian Recipes

Keyword: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Servings: chicken legs

Author: Bee Yinn Low

Ingredients

5 chicken legs around 500g (1.1lb)
2 cloves garlic minced
1 stalk lemongrass use only white part (bottom 6 inches), grated with Microplane
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
3/4 teaspoon, heaping turmeric powder
1/4 teaspoon coriander powder optional
3 dashes cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon, heaping salt
1 tablespoon honey

Basting

1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil

Instructions

In a bowl, mix the chicken with all the ingredients except for the olive oil for basting. Stir well to coat evenly.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, marinate for 1 hour.
Place the chicken legs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spoon the leftover marinade over them and air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 10 minutes. Then, baste the chicken with olive oil.
Flip the chicken legs and baste them with olive oil. Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for another 5 minutes, until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the air fryer and serve hot.

Video

Notes

Don’t rush the marinade. If you can, let the chicken sit for a good hour — the lemongrass and spices really soak in and make every bite flavorful. If the marinade feels a little thick or dry, just splash in a tablespoon or two of water and mix it up.
Don’t cram the chicken in. Leave a bit of space between each drumstick so the hot air can circulate — that’s the secret to even cooking and beautiful color without burning or drying out.
Olive oil basting makes a big difference. That little brush of oil halfway through gives you beautiful color and a glossy finish — totally worth the extra step!

Nutrition