Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks
Air-frying chicken drumsticks are a convenient and flavorful cooking method. Cook them at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Leftovers can be transformed into salads, wraps, stir-fries, or pizzas. Reheat at 375°F for 5-8 minutes. Experiment with seasonings and creative recipes for a delicious and versatile meal. Use aluminum foil cautiously in the air fryer, ensuring it doesn't impede airflow.
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 6 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp Italian seasonings
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 2 olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes.
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Lightly coat the drumsticks with olive oil or use a cooking spray. Season them with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings or spices of your choice. Ensure an even coating.
- Place the seasoned drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation.
- Cook the drumsticks in the preheated air fryer at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Adjust the time based on the size of the drumsticks and your air fryer model.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's fully cooked.
- If you desire extra crispiness, you can extend the cooking time by a few minutes, keeping an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
- Once done, remove the drumsticks from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Marinating Option:
For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the chicken drumsticks for 30 minutes to an hour before air-frying. Use a mixture of your favorite marinade ingredients.
Seasoning Variations:
Experiment with different seasonings and spice blends to customize the flavor. Cajun, barbecue, or lemon herb are popular choices.
Crispy Coating:
For an extra crispy coating, coat the drumsticks with a thin layer of flour or breadcrumbs before air-frying.
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Always preheat the air fryer for a few minutes before placing the drumsticks inside. This ensures even cooking and a crispier exterior.
Avoid Overcrowding:
Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer with some space between them to allow proper air circulation. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
Flip Midway Through:
Flip the drumsticks halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on both sides.
Use a Meat Thermometer:
To ensure the drumsticks are cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).
Serve with Dipping Sauce:
Prepare a dipping sauce such as barbecue, honey mustard, or ranch to serve alongside the air-fried drumsticks for added flavor.
Monitor Cooking Time:
Cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model and the size of the drumsticks. Keep an eye on them, especially towards the end of the cooking process.
Experiment with Accessories:
Some air fryers come with accessories like racks or skewers. Experiment with these accessories to achieve different textures and presentations.
Adjust Temperature for Crispiness:
If you prefer an even crispier skin, you can increase the temperature slightly during the last few minutes of cooking.
Pair with Sides:
Serve the air-fried chicken drumsticks with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a refreshing salad.