Air Fryer Crispy Duck Leg Confit

Name: Air Fryer Crispy Duck Leg Confit
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 duck legs, skin-on and bone-in (about 10-12 oz each); 1 tbsp kosher salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 3 garlic cloves, smashed; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 1 bay leaf, crumbled; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tbsp duck fat (or olive oil if unavailable); fresh parsley for garnish

By AirFryFeast Editorial TeamPublished May 3, 2026 | Updated Jun 17, 2026

Experience the rich, tender flavors of French duck leg confit made effortlessly in your air fryer. This recipe delivers irresistibly crispy skin paired with juicy, flavorful meat—all without excess oil or complicated preparation. Ideal for a family dinner, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes of active cooking time, perfect for gourmet weeknight meals.

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Air fryerFrenchEasyAir Fryer Friendly

Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time30 mins

Total Time45 mins

Servings2

Temperature375°F / 190°C

Ingredients

Servings2

2 duck legs, skin-on and bone-in (about 10-12 oz each)
1 tbsp kosher salt
1 tsp black pepper
3 garlic cloves, smashed
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1 bay leaf, crumbled
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp duck fat (or olive oil if unavailable)
fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Season the duck legs thoroughly with kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika, rubbing evenly over and under the skin.
Place the duck legs in a sealable container or ziplock bag with smashed garlic cloves, thyme sprigs, and crumbled bay leaf. Seal and refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight to enhance flavor and tenderness.
Remove from fridge and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Pat the duck legs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture – this step is essential for crispy skin.
Lightly brush each duck leg with duck fat or olive oil to promote even crisping.
Arrange duck legs skin-side down in the air fryer basket without overlapping to maximize air circulation.
Cook for 15 minutes, then flip and cook for another 12-15 minutes until the skin is golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve with air fryer sides like sautéed greens or roasted cauliflower for a complete meal.

Recipe guidance

Crispiness Control

Pat the duck legs dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.