Crispy, golden brown, and bursting with flavor—these Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken Legs are a must-try for any fried chicken lover. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried chicken, this recipe delivers the same crunch and juiciness without the extra oil.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for:
- Busy home cooks looking for an easy yet satisfying meal.
- Families who love classic fried chicken but want a healthier version.
- Meal preppers who want crispy, flavorful chicken that reheats well.
- Air fryer enthusiasts eager to try new recipes with their favorite appliance.
Using an air fryer significantly reduces the amount of oil used while still achieving a crispy, flavorful coating. The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the chicken, ensuring each bite is juicy and delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 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
- 1 stick butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large freezer bag, combine the chicken drumsticks and buttermilk. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best flavor and tenderness.
2. Prepare the Air Fryer and Coating
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray.
In a shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried oregano.
3. Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken legs from the buttermilk marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Roll each drumstick in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring even coating.
4. Air Fry the Chicken
Place the coated drumsticks in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.
Cook for 15 minutes. Remove from the air fryer, brush each piece with melted butter, flip, and return to the air fryer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once fully cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Large freezer bag
- Shallow dish for coating
- Instant-read thermometer
- Cooking brush (for butter application)
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chicken Legs
- Marinate Longer for More Flavor – Let the chicken soak overnight for the best taste and tenderness.
- Use Panko for Extra Crunch – Panko breadcrumbs create a crispier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket – Cook in batches to ensure each drumstick crisps up properly.
- Check Internal Temperature – Always use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- Let It Rest – Resting the chicken for a few minutes helps keep it juicy.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
How to Store
Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until crispy.
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes.
- Microwave: Not recommended, as it will make the coating soggy.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh chopped parsley or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Parmesan-Crusted: Mix in ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Best Side Dishes to Serve
- Coleslaw – A refreshing contrast to the crispy chicken.
- Mashed Potatoes – Classic comfort food pairing.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet and buttery complement.
- Mac and Cheese – Creamy and cheesy goodness.
- Honey Butter Biscuits – Soft, flaky, and slightly sweet.
Drink Pairings
- Sweet Iced Tea – A Southern favorite.
- Lemonade – Refreshing citrus balance.
- Light Beer – Pairs well with crispy, seasoned chicken.
- Chardonnay – A crisp white wine for a sophisticated touch.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Yes! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute buttermilk with unsweetened almond milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
How do I prevent the breading from falling off?
Pat the chicken dry before coating, and press the panko mixture firmly onto each piece. Let the coated chicken rest for a few minutes before air frying.
Can I make this without an air fryer?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Final Thoughts
This Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken Legs recipe is a game-changer for anyone craving crispy, juicy fried chicken without the guilt. It’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
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