Are you looking to learn how to cook bbq chicken legs in an air fryer? You’re in the right place!
With this easy recipe and simple ingredients, you can enjoy delicious bbq chicken legs cooked to perfection with minimal effort.
So if you’re ready to learn how to make mouth-watering chicken legs in your air fryer, keep reading!
Ingredients Needed To Make Bbq Chicken Legs In The Air Fryer
Before you start cooking the Bbq Chicken Legs, here are some ingredients you can prepare to ensure smooth and efficient cook.
- Chicken Legs (810 pieces)
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
- BBQ Sauce (1/4 cup)
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon)
- Onion Powder (1 teaspoon)
- Paprika or Smoked Paprika (1 tablespoon)
- Brown Sugar, optional (2 teaspoons).
Selecting The Right chicken legs For Cooking Bbq Chicken Legs In The Air Fryer
The best type of chicken leg for cooking BBQ chicken in the air fryer is bone-in, skin-on thighs. These have more flavor and will hold up better to the air frying process.
The extra fat content from the skin helps keep them juicy and tender and adds great flavor when cooked.
Additionally, because you don’t need to worry about preheating an oven or grilling surface, you can start immediately with no wait time!
With their delicious taste and easy preparation, these chicken legs make a perfect meal choice for anyone looking to enjoy some delicious BBQ without all the hassle.
See also: How To Cook Bbq Wings In An Air Fryer?
How To Prepare The Chicken Legs Before Cooking In The Air Fryer?
To prepare the chicken legs before cooking them in an air fryer, mix the olive oil, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika or smoked paprika, and optional brown sugar.
Rub this mixture onto both sides of each chicken leg until evenly coated. Place the prepared chicken legs into the air fryer basket.
How To Cook Bbq Chicken Legs In An Air Fryer?
Here is the step-by-step how to make Bbq Chicken Legs in the air fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees F for 3 minutes.
- Place prepared chicken legs into the air fryer basket, ensure not to overcrowd it, and leave room between each piece of chicken for proper heat circulation.
- Cook at 390 degrees F for 15 minutes (cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken legs).
- Flip over each leg after 8 minutes and cook an additional 7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, or a meat thermometer reads 165°F when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken leg (avoiding bone).
- When done, carefully remove from the air fryer and serve warm with desired accompaniments!
- Enjoy!
What You Need For Air Fryer Bbq Chicken Legs
COSORI Air Fryer (Check Price On Amazon)
If you want a quick and easy way to cook BBQ chicken legs, I recommend using the COSORI Air Fryer. This air fryer has all the features you need to make delicious meals with minimal effort.
With its 5 quart capacity and 360° rapid heat circulation technology, your food will be cooked evenly and quickly every time.
The nine one-touch cooking functions on a tempered glass display give you full control over the temperature settings to adjust according to any recipe or personal preference.
Cleanup is also made easier since this appliance is dishwasher safe. Get ready for some delicious BBQ chicken legs with help from the COSORI Air Fryer!
See also: How To Cook Bbq Chicken Thighs In An Air Fryer?
What To Serve With Bbq Chicken Legs?
There are many ways to serve your Bbq Chicken Legs. There is no right or wrong. Everyone has different tastes. The suggestion below is what I recommend.
- Coleslaw: For a cool, creamy contrast to the smoky barbecue chicken, try pairing it with a coleslaw made with shredded cabbage and carrots.
- Potato Salad: A classic potato salad is always a great accompaniment to BBQ chicken thighs. Try making one with diced potatoes, celery, onion, and hard-boiled eggs tossed in mayonnaise or yogurt dressing for an extra flavor kick!
- Baked Beans: Nothing goes better with BBQ than baked beans! Try adding some brown sugar and molasses to your recipe for added sweetness and depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the smokiness of the chicken thighs.
- Cornbread Muffins: Serve warm corn muffins alongside your BBQ chicken for diners who want something sweet and savory in one bite!
- Roasted Vegetables: To add some color (and nutrition) to your meal, roast up some vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or zucchini on the side. They go great as a side dish served alongside bbq chicken thighs!
See also: How To Cook Bbq Pork In An Air Fryer?
How To Store And Preheat The Leftover Bbq Chicken Legs With The Air Fryer Method
If you have leftover Bbq Chicken Legs, do not thrash them away. You can still store and reheat them again in the air fryer for your next mealtime. Here are the simple tips you can follow:
Storage Tips For the Leftover Bbq Chicken Legs
Food Storage Containers (See on Amazon)
The best way to store leftover bbq chicken legs is to cool them completely before placing them in a sealed container. This will prevent the growth of bacteria and keep your food safe for consumption.
To maximize the freshness, it’s also suggested that you place a paper towel between each portion, so they don’t stick together.
Lastly, label the container with today’s date to easily identify how long it has been stored. Following these tips should ensure that your leftovers remain fresh and delicious!
How To Reheat The Leftover Bbq Chicken Legs In The Air Fryer?
Reheating leftover BBQ chicken legs in the air fryer is a great way to get them crispy and juicy again.
- Start by preheating your air fryer to 375F degrees.
- Then, place your chicken legs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Once done cooking, let sit for a few minutes before serving!
See also: How To Cook Bbq Chicken Drumsticks In An Air Fryer?
Frequently Asked Questions
What Temperature Should I Cook BBQ Chicken Legs In An Air Fryer?
For best results, cook BBQ chicken legs in an air fryer at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
How Long Does It Take To Cook BBQ Chicken Legs In An Air Fryer?
BBQ chicken legs can be cooked in an air fryer for 15-20 minutes at 400°F.
Do I Need To Preheat The Air Fryer Before Cooking BBQ Chicken Legs?
Yes, preheating the air fryer before cooking BBQ chicken legs is recommended. Preheating helps ensure that the food cooks evenly and quickly.
What Ingredients Do I Need To Make BBQ Chicken Legs In An Air Fryer?
To make BBQ chicken legs in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients: 4-6 chicken legs, 1/2 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce, two tablespoons olive oil, one teaspoon garlic powder, one teaspoon onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
Is It Safe To Cook Raw Meat In An Air Fryer?
Yes, it is safe to cook raw meat in an air fryer. However, you should always ensure that the meat’s internal temperature reaches a safe level before consuming it.
Conclusion
This recipe for BBQ chicken legs in an air fryer will surely become your go-to dinner option. You’ll love the flavor of perfectly cooked, juicy chicken legs without all the time and mess of traditional outdoor grilling.
Plus, you can enjoy them anytime with minimal effort! So why not give it a try?
We guarantee you won’t be disappointed!