KFC-Style Air Fryer Chicken Legs

 

Make KFC-Style Chicken Legs at Home with Your Air Fryer

Craving the crispy, flavorful chicken you get from KFC but want a healthier, homemade version? Good news: you don’t need a deep fryer or complicated techniques. With this KFC-style air fryer chicken legs recipe, you can enjoy golden, crunchy chicken with all the seasoning and juiciness you love—right from your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking by giving us that crispy, fried texture without the excess oil. These chicken legs come out crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, with a flavor-packed coating inspired by the iconic KFC recipe. Plus, seasoning the chicken properly before cooking ensures every bite bursts with taste.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 6 chicken legs

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• Cooking spray or a light drizzle of oil

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

• Mix buttermilk, half the salt, and half the spices in a large bowl.

• Add the chicken legs, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better). This tenderizes the meat and infuses flavor.

2. Prepare the Coating

• In a separate bowl, combine flour with the remaining spices.

• Remove chicken from the marinade and dredge in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer

• Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 5 minutes.

4. Cook the Chicken

• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.

• Place chicken legs in the basket, leaving space between each piece.

• Cook for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

• Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, fries, or a crisp salad.

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Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken

• Double dredge: For an extra crunchy coating, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and flour mixture once more before air frying.

• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Air circulation is key for crispiness. Cook in batches if needed.

• Season at every step: Sprinkle a little salt on the coating just before air frying for enhanced flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This KFC-style air fryer chicken is:

• Healthier than traditional fried chicken

• Juicy and flavorful

• Perfect for family dinners or game-day snacks

• Simple enough to make on a weeknight

No deep fryer, no mess, just crispy, golden chicken everyone will love. Once you try this recipe, your air fryer will become your go-to for “fried” chicken nights.