I’ve always loved how the air fryer makes life so much easier—especially when it turns something simple, like chicken leg quarters, into pure gold. The first time I made these, I couldn’t believe how perfectly crisp the skin got while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but comes together with almost no effort at all.
Chicken leg quarters are one of those underrated cuts that pack incredible flavor for a fraction of the price. They’re dark meat, which means they stay moist even after crisping up in the air fryer. Whether I’m cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe never disappoints. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious—exactly the kind of comfort food that makes me look forward to dinner.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken leg quarters: These are a combination of the drumstick and thigh, giving you a perfect balance of juicy dark meat and crispy skin. They’re also affordable and full of flavor—perfect for air frying.
Olive oil: A light coating of olive oil helps the seasoning stick and ensures the skin crisps up beautifully. You don’t need much—just enough to make the spices cling to the surface.
Paprika: This adds a subtle smoky note and a gorgeous golden-red color to the chicken. Smoked paprika works beautifully too if you like a deeper, more rustic flavor.
Garlic powder: It brings out a savory depth that complements the richness of the chicken. Garlic powder distributes evenly and doesn’t burn easily in the air fryer.
Onion powder: It enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a mild sweetness that pairs perfectly with the other spices.
Salt and black pepper: Simple but essential. Salt locks in the juiciness and enhances all the other flavors, while pepper adds a touch of warmth.
Optional seasoning mix: You can get creative here—try adding a pinch of cayenne for heat, Italian herbs for a Mediterranean twist, or lemon pepper for a zesty finish.
Ingredients List
- 2 chicken leg quarters
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels. This step is key—removing excess moisture helps the skin crisp up instead of steaming.
Step 2: Season generously
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, coating every part evenly. You can let it sit for 10–15 minutes if you want the flavors to soak in.
Step 3: Preheat the air fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes. A preheated air fryer helps the skin start crisping immediately.
Step 4: Cook the chicken
Place the chicken leg quarters in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Air fry for 12 minutes, then flip them and cook for another 12–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin looks beautifully golden and crispy.
Step 5: Rest and serve
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Give each piece of chicken space so the hot air can circulate properly and crisp the skin evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: The best way to avoid under- or overcooking is by checking the internal temperature—165°F (74°C) is the magic number.
- Adjust seasoning to your liking: You can easily tweak the spice mix—add chili powder for heat or lemon zest for brightness.
- Crispier skin tip: For extra-crunchy skin, brush a tiny bit more oil on top halfway through cooking.
- Reheating tip: If you have leftovers, pop them back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 4–5 minutes to restore that crispness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken leg quarters?
Yes, but you’ll need to add about 8–10 minutes to the cooking time. Make sure to check the internal temperature before serving.
Do I need to flip the chicken in the air fryer?
Absolutely. Flipping halfway through ensures both sides get evenly crisp and golden.
Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?
Definitely! Marinating for a few hours or overnight adds even more flavor. Just pat the skin dry before air frying for the best texture.
What sides go well with this recipe?
These crispy chicken leg quarters pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or even a simple green salad.
Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs or drumsticks only?
Yes! The timing may vary slightly—check smaller pieces around the 20-minute mark to avoid overcooking.