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Sweet and Spicy Air Fryer Chicken Legs

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These sweet and spicy air fryer chicken legs come out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a perfect quick-fix dinner for busy weeknights. A bold blend of smoked paprika, cayenne, and brown sugar adds addictive flavor with just the right balance of heat and sweetness.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 6 chicken drumsticks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1½ teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to create your seasoning blend.
  2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Place in a large bowl and coat thoroughly with the seasoning blend.
  3. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F. Lightly coat the basket with cooking spray or brush with oil.
  5. Arrange the chicken legs in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  6. Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken very dry before seasoning.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper to make it milder or spicier.
  • Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer for 5 minutes at 350°F.
  • Serve with ranch, blue cheese, or a creamy garlic dip for balance.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken leg
  • Calories: 267
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg