Air Fryer Drumsticks
Listen, if you haven’t tried air-frying your chicken drumsticks yet, buckle up because you’re about to embark on a game-changing delicious adventure. These little beauties come out crispy on the outside with a juicy burst of flavor in every bite—all without the mess and fuss of deep frying. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday nosh session that leaves you satisfied without the greasy residue.
Once upon a time, my tiny family wouldn’t stop raving about these drumsticks after I whipped them up one hectic Tuesday night. Imagine everyone sitting around the kitchen island, not a knife in sight, just hands grabbing for the next crispy leg. It’s become our unspoken tradition when life gets crazy—just pop these in the air fryer, set it, and forget it. The best part? They’re so easy, even my husband—who once managed to burn salad—can’t mess them up.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Drumsticks
– Life’s too short to wait for the oven.
– Less mess, more crisp. You heard me.
– So easy, your husband could make it (maybe).
– Perfect for impressing those picky in-laws with minimal effort.
These air fryer drumsticks turned out perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside—so easy and satisfying! I followed the seasoning mix exactly and it had just the right kick. This one’s definitely going into our weeknight dinner rotation!
How to Make It
Okay, grab your drumsticks! Season those babies like you’d season your life—generously and with flair. Pop them in your trusty air fryer and hit start. Dance around the kitchen a bit. Check if they’re turning that gorgeous golden brown and resist the urge to open the air fryer a zillion times.
Ingredient Notes
– Chicken Drumsticks: The stars of the show. Make sure they’re not frozen, or you’ll end up with sad chewy bits. Nightmare!
– Olive Oil: Just a teensy to help the seasonings stick. Don’t overdo it, or you’ll end up greasy.
– Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Paprika): Feel free to improvise. Had a mishap once with cinnamon. Yup, have never lived that one down.
Recipe Steps
1. Pat chicken drumsticks dry and season with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (if it preheats; mine kinda doesn’t).
3. Place drumsticks in the basket in a single layer. No smushing!
4. Air fry for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. Golden dreams achieved!
5. Check with a meat thermometer or just wing it if you’re brave. Should reach 165°F.
6. Let them rest a few minutes so you don’t scald your mouth. Personal experience speaking.
What to Serve It With
– Fresh, crunchy coleslaw because balance.
– Your favorite dipping sauces. Ranch, anyone?
– A refreshing side salad to pretend you’re being extra healthy.
Tips & Mistakes
Avoid overcrowding that air fryer, folks, unless you enjoy pale, sorry-looking drumsticks. And please don’t skip the paprika; it’s like the fun friend who brings the party together.
Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Toss them in the fridge—won’t judge if you dive into them cold. Surprisingly delightful for breakfast, by the way. When reheating, a quick blast in the air fryer will bring them back to life.
Variations and Substitutions
Out of paprika? Swap for chili powder for a bit of a smoky kick. No olive oil? Try avocado oil, which is basically the same but fancier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Remember it later
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Air Fryer Drumsticks
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 pieces chicken drumsticks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1.5 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, toss the drumsticks with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Place the drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is crispy and cooked through.
- Serve hot and enjoy your crispy air fryer drumsticks!
Notes
Featured Comments
“Made this last night and it was so flavorful. Loved how the juicy came together.”
“Super easy and family favorite! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“New favorite here — family favorite. indulgent was spot on.”
“Super easy and absolutely loved! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“Made this last night and it was will make again. Loved how the quick dinner came together.”
“New favorite here — turned out amazing. dairy-free was spot on.”
“Impressed! Clear steps and absolutely loved results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“Super easy and will make again! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“Made this last night and it was turned out amazing. Loved how the crispy came together.”
“Super easy and turned out amazing! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
