Name: Air Fryer Drumsticks
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 8 chicken drumsticks; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning; Optional: ½ teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper for heat

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There’s something irresistibly satisfying about chicken drumsticks that are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender and juicy inside. Using the air fryer makes this classic comfort food quicker and healthier without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight dinner or gearing up for a game-day feast, these air fryer drumsticks are your go-to for effortless, mouthwatering results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and simple preparation for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
Air fryer technology creates crispy skin without deep frying or excess oil.
Customizable seasoning for mild or spicy flavor profiles.

Ingredients

Chicken Drumsticks: Fresh or thawed, these 8 drumsticks are the perfect protein portion for about 4 servings.
Olive Oil: One tablespoon adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick for perfectly crisp skin.
Paprika: One teaspoon gives a smoky, mildly sweet depth that enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
Garlic Powder: One teaspoon introduces savory richness without overpowering the drumsticks.
Onion Powder: One teaspoon adds a subtle sharpness and aromatic quality.
Salt: Half a teaspoon to balance and highlight all the other flavors.
Black Pepper: Half a teaspoon for a mild peppery finish that complements the poultry.
Dried Oregano or Italian Seasoning: Half a teaspoon adds a fragrant herbal note for complexity.
Optional Chili Powder or Cayenne: Half a teaspoon to add heat and spice, perfect for those who like a kick.

Instructions

Preparation of the Chicken Drumsticks: Begin by patting your drumsticks dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as removing excess moisture allows the skin to crisp up better during cooking. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drumsticks with olive oil and all the spices—paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, oregano, and optional chili powder. Toss everything thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly for maximum flavor.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200 °C (400 °F) and allow it to preheat for about 3 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps develop a crispy exterior right from the start.
Arrange and Cook the Drumsticks: Place the seasoned drumsticks in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Crowding creates steam which prevents crisping. Cook for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping the drumsticks halfway through. This ensures both sides become golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 75 °C (165 °F) to ensure safe consumption.
Rest the Drumsticks: After cooking, let the drumsticks rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and succulent instead of drying out.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your air fryer drumsticks with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce. These make excellent sides for a casual dinner or party snack.

You Must Know

Adding ½ teaspoon of baking powder to the seasoning mix can boost crispiness by increasing skin browning.
If you prefer sauced drumsticks, toss them in BBQ or buffalo sauce after cooking to add extra flavor.
Feel free to switch up the seasoning for variety, such as lemon-pepper, Cajun, or garlic-Parmesan blends.
For meal prep, reheat leftover drumsticks in the air fryer at 180 °C (350 °F) for 5 minutes to regain crispiness.

Storage Tips

Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer rather than a microwave to restore crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these juicy drumsticks with fresh vegetable sides like coleslaw or a crisp green salad. For a classic comfort meal, serve alongside mashed potatoes or corn on the cob.

Professional Tips

Always dry your drumsticks thoroughly to achieve maximum crispiness in the air fryer.
Flip the drumsticks halfway through cooking to promote even browning on all sides.
Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked and safe chicken every time.

FAQs

Can I use frozen drumsticks for this recipe?: Yes, but it’s best to thaw them completely before seasoning and air frying for even cooking and better seasoning adherence.
How do I know when the drumsticks are done?: The internal temperature should reach 75 °C (165 °F). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can I cook more than 8 drumsticks at once?: It’s better to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to less crispy skin.
What dipping sauces go well with air fryer drumsticks?: Ranch, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, and buffalo sauce are all excellent complementary options.
How can I make the drumsticks extra crispy?: Try adding ½ teaspoon baking powder to the seasoning mix and make sure to dry the chicken thoroughly before cooking.
Can I use this method for other chicken parts?: Yes, it works well for wings, thighs, or even bone-in chicken breasts with adjusted cooking times.