How long does it take to air fry chicken legs?

Chicken legs in air fryer take about 20 to 25 minutes at 400°F. Flip the legs halfway through—around the 12-minute mark—for even crispiness. If you're cooking from frozen, increase the time to 28–30 minutes at 380°F. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.

How long to cook leg quarters in an air fryer at 400 degrees?

For leg quarters, air fry at 400°F for 24 to 28 minutes , depending on their size. Start them skin-side down, flip at the halfway point, and check for doneness with a thermometer. The internal temperature should hit 165°F for safe, juicy results. Want a baked version instead? Try this oven chicken leg recipe for a classic twist.

Is it better to bake chicken legs at 350 or 400?

Baking at 400°F gives you crispier skin and faster cooking, while 350°F is better for slow roasting. For air fryer chicken legs , 400°F is ideal—it delivers that crispy finish in less time without drying out the meat.

Should you flip chicken legs when baking?

Yes, always flip chicken legs—whether you're baking or air frying. Flipping ensures even cooking and browning on both sides. In an air fryer, flip halfway through (after 10–12 minutes) to maximize skin crispiness and get that beautiful golden color all around.

Chicken Legs in Air Fryer: 5 Easy Steps to Crispy Magic

Name: Chicken Legs in Air Fryer: Crispy, Juicy, Ready in 25 Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 bone-in chicken legs; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; Optional: cayenne pepper or lemon juice

Description

Chicken legs in air fryer come out crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor in under 30 minutes. This easy recipe is perfect for busy nights.

Ingredients

Scale

4 bone-in chicken legs

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

Optional: cayenne pepper or lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Pat chicken legs dry.

2. Rub with olive oil and seasonings.

3. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.

4. Place chicken legs in basket in a single layer.

5. Air fry for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

6. Check that internal temp is 165°F.

7. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

No need to marinate in advance.

For frozen legs, cook at 380°F for 28–30 mins.

Use meat thermometer for accuracy.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken leg
Calories: 250
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 110mg