Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor—these air fryer chicken drumsticks are a game-changer for quick weeknight dinners or a tasty weekend treat. Using simple ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you can whip up a meal that’s healthier than traditional fried chicken without sacrificing that golden crunch. This recipe is beginner-friendly, customizable, and takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dish!

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Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make these mouthwatering chicken drumsticks:

• 6 chicken drumsticks (about 1.5 lbs)
• 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 thyme (optional for extra flavor)
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)

These pantry staples come together to create a bold seasoning blend that coats the drumsticks perfectly. Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste!

Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed

To make this recipe, gather these essentials:

• Air Fryer – The star of the show for crispy results.
• Mixing Bowl – For tossing the drumsticks with oil and spices.
• Tongs – To safely handle and flip the chicken.
• Meat Thermometer – To ensure the chicken is fully cooked (optional but recommended).

Having these tools on hand makes the process smooth and stress-free.

Recommended Air Fryer

For the best results, I recommend the COSORI 6-Qt Air Fryer – 9-in-1 Versatility, Turbo Speed, 95% Less Oil!. This top-rated air fryer offers:

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• ✅ Precise Temperature Control – 90°–450°F for perfect texture every time 🎯🍽️
• ✅ 6-Qt Family Size – Cook larger meals with a space-saving design 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🍲
• ✅ Up to 95% Less Oil – Crispy, guilt-free frying without excess fat 🥑❌🛢️
• ✅ Quiet & Efficient – Operates under 53 dB for a peaceful kitchen 🤫🔇
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• ✅ 100+ In-App Recipes – Get inspired with chef-crafted meals 📲📖
• ✅ Customizable Preheat & 4 Turbo Modes – Cook your way with precision 🎛️💨

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture, ensuring the skin gets crispy in the air fryer. Place the drumsticks in a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Season the Drumsticks

Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the drumsticks. In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using). Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken and toss until evenly coated. Rub the spices into the skin for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and that signature crispiness.

Step 4: Cook the Drumsticks

Arrange the seasoned drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow hot air to circulate freely. Cook at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping the drumsticks halfway through with tongs. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. This locks in the juices. Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.

Craving more air fryer recipes? The Air Fryer Cookbook: 600 Quick & Easy Recipes for Beginners and Pros has you covered with 600 irresistible dishes for every meal!

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

• Dry the Chicken Well: Excess moisture prevents crispiness, so don’t skip patting the drumsticks dry.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if needed to ensure even air circulation.
• Shake the Basket: Give the basket a gentle shake halfway through cooking for uniform browning.
• Experiment with Spices: Swap in chili powder or Italian seasoning for a flavor twist.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking or overcooking.

These simple tricks elevate your drumsticks from good to great!

Why Use an Air Fryer?

Cooking with an air fryer offers several advantages. The hot air circulation mimics deep frying but uses up to 95% less oil, making it a healthier choice. Cleanup is a breeze with nonstick baskets, and the quick cooking time saves you effort on busy days. Plus, the versatility of an air fryer means you can roast, bake, or even dehydrate with one appliance.

For those watching their weight, supplements like Moringa Actives can complement your healthy cooking. This natural product supports weight loss and metabolism—perfect for maintaining balance alongside delicious meals like these drumsticks.

Nutritional Facts

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (1 drumstick, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 10g (2g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 300mg

These values may vary slightly depending on the size of your drumsticks and exact seasoning amounts. The low carb count makes this recipe keto-friendly, especially if paired with supplements like NuviaLab Keto to support a high-fat diet.

Ready to explore more air fryer magic? Grab the Air Fryer Cookbook: 600 Quick & Easy Recipes for Beginners and Pros for 600 creative ideas to keep your meals exciting and healthy!

Serving Suggestions

Pair these drumsticks with sides that complement their bold flavors:

• Roasted Vegetables – Toss broccoli or carrots in your air fryer for a complete meal.
• Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy side to balance the richness.
• Sweet Potato Fries – Air fry these for a sweet and savory combo.

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Storage and Reheating

Leftovers? Store cooked drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the skin soggy.

Customizing Your Drumsticks

Love variety? Here are some ways to switch up this recipe:

• BBQ Style: Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• Honey Garlic: Mix honey and soy sauce for a sticky glaze.
• Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest and fresh rosemary for a bright twist.

The possibilities are endless, and the Air Fryer Cookbook: 600 Quick & Easy Recipes for Beginners and Pros offers even more ways to get creative with your air fryer!

Final Thoughts

These air fryer chicken drumsticks are proof that healthy eating doesn’t mean boring meals. With minimal prep, affordable ingredients, and a trusty air fryer, you can enjoy restaurant-quality chicken at home. The crispy skin, juicy meat, and bold spices make this a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

For those on a weight loss journey, consider adding Keto Actives to your routine. This supplement supports fat reduction and appetite control, pairing perfectly with low-carb dishes like this one.

Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious drumsticks!