Air Fryer Chicken Legs

plate full of crispy chicken drumsticks with lemon wedges and garlic cloves.

This air fryer chicken legs recipe is a game-changer, giving you juicy chicken legs infused with the zesty goodness of lemon juice and herbs. It's an easy dinner recipe for busy weeknights that the whole family will enjoy.

Course Dessert, lunch

Cuisine American

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Marinating time 30

Total Time 1 5

Servings

Calories 257kcal

Author Sherri Hagymas

Ingredients

2.5 pounds chicken legs approx. 6 drumsticks
⅓ cup fresh lemon juice juice of 2 lemons
2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 garlic cloves minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary optional
Lemon zest

Instructions

In a large bowl, add the lemon juice, chopped parsley, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, dried thyme (if using), and lemon zest and mix to combine well.
⅓ cup fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 2 garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary, Lemon zest
Add in the chicken drumsticks and toss to coat.
2.5 pounds chicken legs
Cover with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator to marinate for 30 minutes.
Preheat the air fryer to 350° F
Arrange the chicken legs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd or they may cook uneven.
Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping them half way through. (check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Internal temperature should reach 165° F.)
Serve warm with extra lemon juice and fresh parsley on top.

Notes

Use any favorite herbs and seasonings or marinades you'd like.

For best flavor, don't skip the marinating. You can marinate for up to 4 hours if you'd like.

Line the air fryer with parchment paper for easy clean ups. Make sure it is cut to the size of the air fryer basket to avoid it burning if it's on the sides.

To reheat:

Air fryer - For optimal crispiness, reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350° F (180°C) for about 5 minutes.

Oven - You can also place the drumsticks on a parchment lined baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Microwave - While it may not maintain the crispiness, place the chicken on a microwave safe plate and heat for 30 seconds to a minute.

Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Once cooled completely, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours then transfer them to an air tight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.

Nutrition