Easy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs

These Easy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with garlicky, cheesy flavor. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re perfect for quick weeknight dinners or a tasty meal prep option.

Transform your weeknight dinners with these Easy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs!

Crispy, golden, and bursting with savory garlic and Parmesan flavor, they’re a fuss-free way to enjoy a restaurant-style meal at home.

Ready in under 30 minutes, these chicken legs pair perfectly with roasted veggies, salad, or mashed potatoes for a complete, crowd-pleasing dinner the whole family will love.

If you are looking for even more Air Fryer Chicken Recipes, some of my favorite recipes are AIR FRYER CHICKEN THIGHS WITH A HOMEMADE DRY RUB, AIR FRYER CHICKEN CORDON BLEU, AIR FRYER STARBUCKS COPYCAT PROTEIN BOXES, and AIR FRYER BROCCOLI AND CHEESE STUFFED CHICKEN.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Crispy, golden perfection – Air frying gives chicken legs a crunchy exterior without deep frying.
• Savory garlic and Parmesan flavor – Bold, cheesy, garlicky seasoning in every bite.
• Quick and fuss-free – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• Family-friendly meal – Kids and adults alike will devour these flavorful chicken legs.
• Versatile serving options – Perfect with roasted veggies, salads, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Ingredients Needed

• Chicken drumsticks, fresh or fully thawed for cooking
• Grated Parmesan cheese, finely shredded for cheesy coating
• Baking powder, helps create extra crispy chicken skin
• Onion powder, adds savory depth and flavor to chicken
• Garlic powder, provides bold, aromatic garlic flavoring
• Salt, for evenly seasoning the chicken pieces
• Black pepper, freshly ground for balanced seasoning taste
• Cooking spray, for greasing air fryer basket or chicken

How To Make Easy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs

Step One: Add the parmesan cheese, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a large Ziploc Bag. Mix well.

Step Two: Use a paper towel, and dry your chicken legs on, then place them into the Ziploc Bag. Coating both sides.

Step Three: Either spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray or line your air fryer basket with parchment paper. Set your chicken drumsticks in the air fryer basket, and set the air fryer temperature to 370 degrees F, air fryer setting, set cook time for 25 minutes, flipping halfway during the cooking process.

Use a meat thermometer, and check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should be 165 degrees F.

Easy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs Recipe Tips

• Before coating the drumsticks in baking powder and seasonings, pat down the skin to remove excess moisture. This will help you achieve that delicious crunchy outside while keeping them juicy on the inside!
• So many people overcrowd their air fryer baskets, and it affects how the food cooks. Make sure you only put drumsticks in one layer; otherwise, they won’t cook evenly, so if necessary, cook them in batches of two!
• The best way to ensure your chicken breasts are cooked through and ready for eating is by using an instant-read thermometer. You should aim for a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, which will ensure that the meat inside has been heated all the way through without being undercooked or overcooked on either side!
• When you’re ready to serve the chicken, let it rest for 5 minutes. This will allow juices to settle in your chicken and ensure that your meal is as juicy or better than before!

Storing Instructions

If you have any chicken leftover, let it cool to room temperature, and then place it into an airtight container. They will last in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days.

Easy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks for this recipe? Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the drumsticks before air frying to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.

Can I make this recipe without Parmesan cheese? You can, but the Parmesan adds flavor and helps create a golden, crispy coating. Try substituting with another hard cheese if desired.

What is the best way to reheat leftover chicken legs? Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the coating soggy.

Can I double the recipe? Yes, just make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed for even cooking.

How can I make the chicken extra crispy? Toss the drumsticks lightly in a little more baking powder before air frying and finish with a 1–2 minute broil at the end if your air fryer allows.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER TERIYAKI PORK CHOPS
• AIR FRYER CRAB LEGS
• EASY AIR FRYER AIR FRYER SESAME CHICKEN
• AIR FRYER SESAME CHICKEN
• AIR FRYER SKIRT STEAK

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