Description
This Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken Legs recipe features tender, juicy chicken drumsticks soaked in tangy buttermilk, coated in a flavorful spiced panko breadcrumb mixture, and air fried to crispy perfection. The addition of melted butter brushed halfway through cooking adds richness and enhances the crispy crust. A healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, this recipe delivers deliciously crunchy and moist chicken legs with less oil and quick cooking time.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
Other
- 1 stick butter, melted
- Nonstick cooking spray (for air fryer basket)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken drumsticks and buttermilk in a large freezer bag. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Preheat air fryer: Set air fryer temperature to 390°F (199°C). Spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare breading mixture: In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried oregano. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Coat the chicken: Remove each chicken leg from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Roll each piece thoroughly in the breading mixture to coat all sides evenly.
- Arrange in air fryer: Place the coated chicken legs in the air fryer basket with some space between each piece. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- First air frying: Cook the chicken legs for 15 minutes at 390°F. This initial cook crisps the coating and begins cooking the meat.
- Apply melted butter: Remove the basket and brush the cooked chicken legs with melted butter. Flip the chicken legs to the other side and return them to the air fryer.
- Finish cooking: Cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken legs. Check doneness by using an instant-read thermometer; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) without touching the bone.
- Keep warm and serve: Once fully cooked, keep the chicken warm until all batches are done. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Marinating overnight results in more tender and flavorful chicken.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispness.
- If you prefer spicier chicken, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breading mixture.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to guarantee food safety and avoid overcooking.
- Brushing with melted butter halfway through cooking enhances flavor and crispness.
