Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years as a healthy alternative to deep frying. Cooking poultry like chicken leg quarters in an air fryer is a great way to get crispy, delicious results using little to no oil. But how long should you cook chicken leg quarters in an air fryer to ensure they are fully cooked and tender? There are a few factors to consider when determining the ideal air fryer cook time for bone-in chicken leg quarters.
What Temperature To Cook Chicken Leg Quarters In An Air Fryer?
When cooking bone-in chicken pieces like leg quarters in an air fryer, it’s generally recommended to cook at a temperature between 370-400°F. Many air fryer recipes call for cooking around 380°F which allows the exterior to get crispy and browned while the interior cooks through.
Cooking at a high temperature between 370-400°F gives the chicken leg quarters a nice crispy exterior by quickly browning the outside. The hot circulating air of the air fryer also cooks the inside of the meat evenly throughout. Going over 400°F can lead to the exterior overcooking before the interior is done.
How Long To Cook Chicken Leg Quarters Based On Weight?
The weight of the chicken leg quarters is one of the most important factors in determining cook time. Larger, thicker leg quarters will take longer to cook through than smaller ones. Here are some general guidelines for air fryer cook times based on the weight of chicken leg quarters:
| Chicken Leg Quarter Weight | Cook Time |
| 1 – 1.5 lbs | 18 – 22 minutes |
| 1.5 – 2 lbs | 22 – 28 minutes |
| 2 – 2.5 lbs | 28 – 35 minutes |
Keep in mind that the larger the leg quarters are, the more time variance there may be within that weight range. Always check that chicken leg quarters are fully cooked through before removing from the air fryer.
Tips For Cooking Juicy, Tender Chicken Leg Quarters
To help keep chicken leg quarters juicy and tender when cooking in an air fryer, here are some tips to follow:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning – This helps achieve a crisper skin.
- Coat with a light layer of oil – A light brushing of oil or oil spray helps promote browning.
- Use a meat thermometer – Check internal temp reaches 165°F.
- Avoid overcrowding – Cook in a single layer, not touching.
- Let rest before serving – 5-10 minutes allows juices to redistribute.
Seasonings And Flavorings
Air fryers create a crispy exterior on chicken leg quarters, but seasonings and flavorings are still needed to make them extra delicious. Here are some recommended ways to add flavor:
- Spice rubs – Cajun, jerk, garlic herb, lemon pepper, etc.
- Barbecue sauce – Brush on toward the end to make sticky barbecue chicken.
- Herbs – Rosemary, thyme, oregano work well on chicken.
- Spices – Paprika, cumin, chili powder, mustard powder.
- Wet marinades – Buttermilk, yogurt, citrus, and herbs.
Experiment with dry rubs, wet marinades, sauces, and herbs/spices to find your favorite seasoned chicken leg quarters. Apply flavors either before cooking or brush on toward the end of cook time.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid when making juicy, tender air fryer chicken leg quarters:
- Not patting chicken dry – Moisture on the skin leads to soggy skin.
- Overcrowding – Chicken quarters need space to brown and cook evenly.
- Cooking at too low of heat – Higher heat crisps the skin and cooks interior.
- Not checking temperature – Use a meat thermometer for doneness.
- Not letting rest – Juices redistribute best when chicken rests 5+ minutes.
How To Know When Chicken Leg Quarters Are Done
Checking the internal temperature is the most reliable way to know when chicken leg quarters are fully cooked. Use an instant-read thermometer to test the thickest part of the leg or thigh, avoiding bone. The safe minimum internal temperature for chicken to reach is 165°F.
The chicken leg quarters should also show some browning and crisping of the skin when they are fully cooked. The juices should run clear when pierced with a fork or knife tip. If juices are still pink and blood is present, return to the air fryer for a few more minutes.
Serving Ideas
Air fryer chicken leg quarters make for a quick and easy main protein any night of the week. Here are some delicious ways to serve them:
- Over rice – Cajun or jerk seasoned leg quarters served over rice or cauliflower rice.
- With roasted veggies – Pair with potatoes, Brussels sprouts, broccoli.
- In sandwiches/wraps – Chop or shred and add to sandwiches or wraps.
- Over salad – Serve sliced chicken quarters over fresh salad greens.
- With waffles – Sounds odd but surprisingly delicious combo!
Get creative with flavors and try chicken leg quarters in tacos, flatbreads, pasta dishes, soups and more. The convenience of the air fryer makes it simple to whip up crispy, juicy chicken for many meal ideas.
Storing And Reheating Leftovers
To safely store leftover cooked air fryer chicken leg quarters:
- Let cool completely, then refrigerate within 2 hours in a sealed container. Keeps 3-4 days in fridge.
- Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for 2-3 months. Thaw in fridge before reheating.
- Reheat in a 375°F air fryer or 350°F oven until warmed through, about 10 minutes. Microwave works too.
- Bring leftovers to 165°F and consume within 3-4 days. Do not keep past 4 days.
Conclusion
Cooking juicy, flavorful chicken leg quarters in an air fryer is easy when you follow a few guidelines. Aim to cook bone-in leg quarters at around 380°F for 18-35 minutes, depending on weight. Season the chicken and allow 5+ minutes to rest before serving. Check internal temperature to ensure doneness. Enjoy air fryer chicken leg quarters on their own or used in a variety of delicious meals!