KFC-Style Air Fryer Chicken Legs

 

Requires no deep fryer — just your air fryer!

Less oil, same crunch.

Ready in under 30 minutes (plus marinating time).

Perfect for meal prep or quick family dinners.

You can customize the seasoning easily.

🍗 Ingredients
Ingredient Quantity Purpose
Boneless, skinless chicken legs 2 Juicy base for your fried chicken
Buttermilk 1 cup Tenderizes and flavors the meat
All-purpose flour 1 cup Forms the crispy coating
Paprika 1 tsp Adds color and smoky flavor
Garlic powder 1 tsp Savory depth
Onion powder 1 tsp Enhances the fried flavor
Dried thyme ½ tsp Earthy aroma
Dried basil ½ tsp Mild herbal note
Dried oregano ½ tsp Classic KFC seasoning element
Salt ½ tsp Brings everything together
Black pepper ¼ tsp Adds a gentle heat
Cooking spray or oil spray As needed Helps achieve that golden crispness
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
Air fryer

Mixing bowls

Shallow dish (for coating)

Tongs

Meat thermometer

🍴 Ingredient Substitutions & Additions
Use chicken thighs or drumsticks for a juicier bite.

Add cayenne pepper or chili powder if you like heat.

Substitute Greek yogurt + milk if you’re out of buttermilk.

For extra crunch: Add 2 tbsp of cornstarch to the flour mix.

Gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour — it works beautifully!

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions