I have a serious weakness for crispy chicken drumsticks, and this Garlic Parmesan version in the air fryer has completely stolen my heart (and my dinner plans). Every time I make them, that golden crunch sings a little song when I bite in, and the inside stays unbelievably juicy. Plus, the garlicky, cheesy coating is the kind of flavor combination that just makes you close your eyes in happiness.
The best part? These beauties come together with minimal fuss, no oil splattering all over the kitchen, and without heating up the whole house. They’re the kind of weeknight dinner that tastes like I’ve been cooking for hours, yet they’re done in under 30 minutes. Whether I’m serving them with a crisp salad, roasted veggies, or just a pile of fries, they always get a round of applause.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken drumsticks: The star of the show. Drumsticks stay juicy and flavorful, even under the intense heat of the air fryer. Their higher fat content compared to chicken breasts means more moisture and tenderness inside, and the skin crisps up beautifully.
Olive oil: This helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and also promotes that irresistible golden crunch in the air fryer. A light drizzle is all you need to get professional-level crispiness without deep frying.
Garlic powder: The savory backbone of our flavor profile. Garlic powder blends seamlessly with the coating, giving every bite that warm, aromatic punch without the risk of burning fresh garlic in the high heat.
Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky sweetness and a warm reddish hue that makes the drumsticks look as good as they taste. You can use sweet paprika for mild flavor or smoked paprika for a deeper, richer note.
Salt & black pepper: These are the essentials for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors. They may seem simple, but without them, the whole dish would fall flat.
Grated Parmesan cheese: The finishing touch that takes this chicken over the top. Parmesan adds a nutty, salty richness that pairs perfectly with the garlic and makes the coating extra savory.
Fresh parsley: A pop of green freshness that lightens the dish. It also adds a touch of color that makes the drumsticks look extra inviting when you serve them.
Ingredients List
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Garlic Parm Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks
Step 1: Prep the chicken
Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This is the key to getting that skin nice and crispy in the air fryer.
Step 2: Season generously
In a large bowl, drizzle the drumsticks with olive oil. Sprinkle over the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat every piece evenly.
Step 3: Arrange in the air fryer
Place the drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure there’s space between them so the hot air can circulate and crisp them up evenly.
Step 4: Cook until golden
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should be golden and crispy on the outside, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Add the cheesy finish
While still hot, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the drumsticks so it melts slightly and clings to the crispy skin. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Dry your chicken well before seasoning to avoid soggy skin.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket — air fry in batches if necessary.
- Use smoked paprika for a deeper, slightly smoky flavor.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer for juicy, safe-to-eat chicken.
- Add the Parmesan after cooking to keep it from burning in the air fryer.
- Pair with a dipping sauce like ranch, garlic aioli, or marinara for extra indulgence.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs or wings instead of drumsticks?
Yes! Just adjust cooking times — thighs may need a couple extra minutes, while wings will cook faster.
Can I make these ahead of time?
They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Fresh garlic tends to burn in the air fryer, so garlic powder is the safer choice for even flavor without bitterness.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Yes, preheating helps the skin start crisping immediately, leading to better results.