Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you're looking for a quick and delicious way to prepare chicken, these Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks are perfect. The air fryer creates a crispy skin without all the extra oil, keeping the drumsticks light but full of flavor. The seasoning blend of garlic powder, paprika, and a touch of baking powder enhances the crispiness, while the juicy chicken inside keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, you can make this meal in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks, skin on

• 2 tablespoon olive oil, divided

• 2 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon pepper (can increase if desired)

• 2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon paprika

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Using 1 tablespoon of olive oil, coat the chicken drumsticks evenly with oil.

3. In a separate bowl, mix together the baking powder, pepper, garlic powder, salt, and paprika.

4. Toss the drumsticks in the seasoning mixture until they are fully coated.

5. Brush the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top of the drumsticks.

6. Place the drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them.

7. Cook the drumsticks at 400°F for 10 minutes.

8. Flip the drumsticks over and cook for an additional 10 minutes.

9. Remove the drumsticks from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 (two drumsticks each)

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Drumsticks: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.

• Herb-Infused: Mix in some dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano for an earthy flavor.

• Lemon Pepper: For a zesty twist, use lemon pepper seasoning instead of regular pepper and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after cooking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover chicken drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through, or until the skin becomes crispy again. You can also reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.

FAQs

How do I make sure the drumsticks are fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check.

Can I use boneless chicken instead of drumsticks?

Yes, you can substitute with boneless chicken thighs or breasts, but adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Yes, preheating the air fryer helps ensure the chicken gets crispy and cooks evenly.

Can I make these drumsticks without olive oil?

You can use other oils such as vegetable oil or avocado oil if desired.

Can I cook more than 8 drumsticks at once?

You may need to cook in batches if your air fryer basket is too small. Overcrowding can affect the crispiness and cooking time.

What if I don’t have baking powder?

Baking powder helps create a crispier skin, but you can still make these drumsticks without it. The texture might not be as crispy, but they will still taste great.

Can I marinate the chicken before cooking?

Yes, marinating the chicken in the seasoning for an hour or two can help enhance the flavor, but it's not necessary for this recipe.

Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks?

It’s best to thaw the chicken before cooking, but if you use frozen drumsticks, increase the cook time by 5-10 minutes.

Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the drumsticks in the oven at 400°F for about 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How can I make the skin extra crispy?

To get extra crispy skin, make sure the chicken is coated evenly with oil and seasoning. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer, and make sure it’s preheated to the right temperature.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks are an easy, flavorful, and healthier alternative to deep-frying. With crispy skin and juicy meat, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Plus, it only takes 30 minutes to prepare, making it the perfect choice for a busy weeknight meal! Whether you’re looking for a simple dinner or a quick way to prepare chicken for meal prep, this air fryer recipe delivers on flavor and convenience.