chicken drumstick air fryer recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
chicken drumstick air fryer recipe
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The Best chicken drumstick air fryer recipe

I’ve always been a fan of air fryer recipes, and this chicken drumstick air fryer recipe is no exception. It’s a staple in our household, and my family loves it just as much as I do. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. I like to think of it as a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, minus the mess and guilt. We make this recipe for special occasions like holidays and birthdays, but it’s also a regular in our weekly meal planning.

My kids devour it in seconds, and I appreciate how well it keeps me on track with my cooking goals. Plus, it’s a great way to get some extra veggies in with the sides we serve alongside it. The technique behind this recipe is straightforward: simply season the chicken drumsticks with your favorite spices, toss them in the air fryer basket, and cook until crispy.

I often find myself experimenting with different seasoning combinations to keep things interesting. My personal favorite is a classic blend of paprika, garlic powder, and salt. The result is always tender, juicy chicken that’s full of flavor without being too spicy or overwhelming.

It’s become a go-to for when we’re short on time but want something satisfying and delicious on the table.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

4.9 from 1166 votes

Juicy chicken drumsticks with a perfectly crispy skin, cooked in the air fryer. This simple recipe uses a dry rub for maximum flavor and minimal mess.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 pounds chicken drumsticks (about 8 drumsticks)
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Dry Rub

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

👨‍🍳Directions

1Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
2This removes excess moisture and helps the skin get crispy.
3Place the drumsticks in a large bowl.
4Drizzle the olive oil over the drumsticks and toss to coat evenly.
5In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
6Sprinkle the spice mixture over the drumsticks and toss until each piece is well coated.
7Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
8Arrange the seasoned drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
9You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
10Cook the drumsticks at 380°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
11After 10 minutes, use tongs to flip each drumstick over to ensure even cooking.
12The drumsticks are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
13Remove the drumsticks from the air fryer using tongs.
14Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
15This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.

🔧Equipment

Air fryer
Large bowl
Paper towels
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 140mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 2g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 0g🥩Protein: 42g

📝Notes

For extra crispiness, spray the drumsticks lightly with cooking oil halfway through cooking. If using frozen drumsticks, thaw them completely before cooking and adjust cooking time as needed.

Watch Video Of How Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks Works

This chicken drumstick air fryer recipe has become a staple in our household for its ease of preparation, delicious flavors, and health benefits. My family loves it because it’s quick to make and always hits the spot after a long day.

Plus, with all the extra veggies we serve alongside it, everyone gets their daily dose of essential nutrients without even realizing it. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or just need something easy for dinner tonight, this recipe delivers.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

Q: What type of chicken drumsticks are best for this recipe?

For this recipe, you’ll want to use bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks for maximum flavor and moisture.

Q: Can I use pre-seasoned chicken drumsticks?

Nope! While convenient, pre-seasoned drumsticks often contain added preservatives and can be overpowered by the strong flavors in this recipe.

Q: How long should I cook the chicken drumsticks?

Cooking time will depend on your air fryer model and personal preference for crispiness.

Q: Can I add more veggies to this recipe?

Sure thing! Feel free to add sliced carrots or broccoli florets alongside the chicken for an extra burst of color and nutrients.

Q: Do I need any special equipment for this recipe?

Nope! Just your trusty air fryer basket and a few basic kitchen tools.

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