Transform your weeknight dinners with these crispy and flavorful Mediterranean Diet Air Fried Chicken Legs, the perfect healthy twist on a classic favorite! Infused with a vibrant blend of lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and thyme, these juicy chicken legs are marinated to perfection, then air-fried for a golden, crispy exterior without the need for excess oil. This quick and easy recipe brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings. Garnished with fresh parsley and zesty lemon for a bright, aromatic finish, these chicken legs are not only irresistibly delicious but also align with heart-healthy eating. Serve them with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal. Keywords: Mediterranean diet, air fried chicken legs, healthy chicken recipe, crispy air fryer chicken, quick Mediterranean dinner.
Wash the chicken legs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Make sure they are dry to ensure crispiness.
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Add the chicken legs into the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade mixture, ensuring that each piece is well covered. For best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.
Arrange the marinated chicken legs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not touch each other to allow even cooking.
Air fry the chicken legs for 22-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process for even browning. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken legs from the air fryer and place them on a serving dish.
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and lemon zest over the chicken legs for garnish before serving.
Calories |
1105 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 80.9 g | 104% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.7 g | 94% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 454 mg | 151% | |
| Sodium | 1614 mg | 70% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 9.4 g | 3% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.7 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.2 g | ||
| Protein | 85.3 g | 171% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 110 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 6.7 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 1122 mg | 24% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.