Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks deliver juicy chicken with golden, flavorful skin using simple pantry seasonings and very little added oil. Pat the chicken dry, coat it with garlic, paprika, and onion powder, and air fry at 380°F (193°C), turning halfway through. Check that the thickest part reaches at least 165°F (74°C), then finish at a higher temperature if needed for extra crispness. Serve with roasted potatoes, vegetables, salad, or your favorite dipping sauce for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 medium chicken drumsticks approximately 2 pounds / 900 g
- 1 tablespoon 15 ml olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano optional
- ⅛ –¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley optional, for serving
Instructions
- . Dry the chicken. Pat the drumsticks thoroughly dry with paper towels. Remove any loose skin or excess fat if desired.
- Mix the seasoning. Combine garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional oregano or cayenne in a small bowl.
- Coat the drumsticks. Place the chicken in a large bowl, add the olive oil, and toss to coat. Sprinkle in the seasoning mixture and rub it evenly over the drumsticks.
- Preheat the air fryer. Preheat to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes, following your appliance's instructions.
- Arrange the chicken. Place the drumsticks in a single layer with space between the pieces. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook the first side. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10 minutes.
- Turn the drumsticks. Carefully turn each piece with tongs and continue cooking for another 10–15 minutes at the same temperature.
- Check the temperature. Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone. The chicken must reach at least 165°F (74°C). If needed, cook in additional 2–3-minute increments and check again.
- Crisp the skin if necessary. If the chicken is cooked through but needs more browning, air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 3–5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent the spices from burning.
- Rest and serve. Transfer the drumsticks to a clean plate and rest for 3–5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.