If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious way to cook chicken drumsticks, the air fryer is your best friend. It gives you that crispy skin and juicy meat without the mess or extra oil of deep frying. Here’s everything you need to know to make perfect air fryer drumsticks every time.
Why Cook Drumsticks in an Air Fryer?
Air fryers circulate hot air around the food, cooking it evenly and creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Drumsticks are ideal for this method because their skin crisps up beautifully, and the meat stays moist. Plus, air frying uses much less oil, making it a healthier option.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Chicken drumsticks (skin on, bone in)
– Olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
– Salt (kosher or sea salt)
– Black pepper (freshly cracked if possible)
– Garlic powder
– Paprika (smoked paprika adds a nice depth)
– Optional: onion powder, oregano, cumin, or your favorite herbs and spices
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Drumsticks in an Air Fryer
1. Prep the Drumsticks
Start by patting your drumsticks dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because dry skin helps the oil and seasonings stick better and ensures a crispier finish.
2. Season Well
Drizzle the drumsticks with olive oil and rub it in to coat evenly. Then, mix your salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any other spices you like in a small bowl. Rub this seasoning mix all over the chicken, making sure every piece is well coated.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer (Optional)
Some air fryers require preheating. If yours does, preheat it to about 380–390°F (193–200°C) for 3–5 minutes. Preheating helps the chicken cook evenly and develop a crispy skin.
4. Arrange the Drumsticks
Place the drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding. Make sure there’s space between each piece so the hot air can circulate properly. If needed, cook in batches.
5. Cook the Drumsticks
Air fry the drumsticks at 390–400°F (200–204°C) for about 25 minutes total. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispiness on all sides.
6. Check for Doneness
The drumsticks are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), but many prefer cooking them to 175–185°F (79–85°C) for extra tenderness. The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
7. Rest and Serve
Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat even juicier.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Drumsticks
– Don’t overcrowd the basket: Give each drumstick room to breathe for crispiness.
– Pat dry before seasoning: Moisture prevents crisp skin.
– Use oil sparingly: Avoid cooking sprays that can cause residue; a light drizzle of olive or avocado oil works best.
– Try marinades or sauces: Add BBQ sauce or hot sauce after cooking for extra flavor.
– Adjust cooking time for size: Larger drumsticks may need a few extra minutes; smaller ones less.
– Use foil for easy cleanup: Lining the basket with foil can help, but avoid blocking air circulation.
Flavor Variations to Try
– Classic BBQ: Cook drumsticks for 20 minutes, brush with BBQ sauce, then cook 5 more minutes.
– Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to your seasoning mix.
– Herbaceous: Mix in oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a fresh twist.
– Garlic Parmesan: Toss cooked drumsticks with garlic butter and grated Parmesan cheese.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Drumsticks?
Air fryer drumsticks pair well with a variety of sides:
– Potato salad or roasted potatoes
– Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or green beans
– Fresh green salad
– Rice or quinoa
– Coleslaw or crunchy slaw for texture contrast
Final Thought
Cooking drumsticks in an air fryer is a game-changer for busy cooks who want crispy, juicy chicken without the fuss. With simple seasoning and a quick cook time, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Enjoy the crispy skin and tender meat every time!