If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious way to cook chicken drumsticks, the air fryer is your best friend. It produces juicy, tender chicken on the inside with a crispy, golden-brown exterior—without all the added fat of deep-frying. The best part? It’s fast, easy, and mess-free! Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, air fryer chicken drumsticks are a game changer.
I love how the air fryer allows me to achieve that perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat without any fuss. It takes less time than baking, and the results are always impressive. These air fryer chicken drumsticks are seasoned to perfection and cooked to the right temperature every time. Get ready for a flavor-packed dish that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken Drumsticks: The star of the show! Drumsticks are perfect for the air fryer because they cook evenly and develop that crispy skin while staying juicy inside. Make sure to buy fresh, skin-on drumsticks for the best results.
Olive Oil: A light coat of olive oil helps to crisp up the skin while keeping the meat moist. It also allows the seasonings to stick nicely to the chicken.
Garlic Powder: This adds a savory depth of flavor. Garlic powder works great in the air fryer, giving the drumsticks a pleasant, aromatic taste.
Paprika: Paprika brings a mild smoky flavor to the chicken, while also giving the skin a beautiful golden color once it’s cooked.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken. Be sure to season generously for maximum flavor.
Dried Oregano: Adds a hint of earthiness and freshness to the chicken. It’s a simple yet effective way to elevate the dish.
Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving adds a zesty brightness that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the chicken.
Ingredients list
- 6 chicken drumsticks, skin-on
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks
Step 1: Prep the Drumsticks
Start by patting the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the skin become crispier during cooking. Then, drizzle the drumsticks with olive oil and toss them to coat evenly.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over the chicken drumsticks, ensuring all sides are coated. You can even rub the spices into the skin for extra flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This helps the chicken cook evenly and develop that perfect crispiness.
Step 4: Cook the Drumsticks
Place the seasoned drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overcrowded so the air can circulate freely. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when done.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once the drumsticks are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, if desired, and serve hot!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: For the crispiest results, make sure the drumsticks are spaced out in a single layer. If needed, cook in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Add variety to the seasoning: Feel free to experiment with other spices like cayenne pepper for heat or thyme for a more herbal flavor.
- Rest the chicken before serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender meat.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks for this recipe? Yes! You can cook frozen drumsticks in the air fryer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time and make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they’re fully cooked.
How do I store leftover air fryer chicken drumsticks? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes to bring back the crispy texture.
Can I use other cuts of chicken? Absolutely! While this recipe is designed for drumsticks, you can also use chicken thighs, wings, or breasts. Adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of the cut.
Can I add BBQ sauce to these drumsticks? Yes! If you like BBQ-flavored chicken, brush the drumsticks with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will give the chicken a delicious glaze without burning the sauce.