Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks: Can You Make Them?

Air fryers are a convenient, cheap, and extremely customizable way to cook chicken drumsticks. They are a healthy way to get your protein, especially if you are trying a keto or low-carb diet. Air-fried chicken drumsticks are also a hit with kids and can be served with beans, corn casserole, Brussel sprouts, or potatoes. You can season the drumsticks with olive oil, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. The cooking time depends on the size of the drumsticks, but generally, it takes around 20-25 minutes at 380-400°F, flipping them halfway through.

How to season drumsticks for the air fryer

There are many ways to season chicken drumsticks for the air fryer, and the method you choose will depend on your taste preferences and dietary requirements. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to season drumsticks for the air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken legs with a paper towel to dry. Place them in a medium-sized bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine your chosen seasonings. A basic blend could include olive oil, paprika, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. You can also experiment with other seasonings, such as garlic powder, dried oregano, onion powder, cayenne, or mustard. If you want a barbecue flavour, you can use a rub that includes garlic powder and onion powder, or a marinade or sauce such as ranch, buffalo sauce, or BBQ sauce.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Add the olive oil and seasonings to the bowl of chicken and toss until fully coated. You can also place the chicken in a large zip-top bag, pour in the seasonings, and shake to coat.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken legs skin side down in the basket of the air fryer. Cook at 380-400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes. Flip the drumsticks and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165-190 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. For extra juicy chicken, lightly tent the drumsticks in aluminium foil for 5 minutes. Serve with your favourite sides and sauces, such as sugar-free BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover chicken drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. They can also be frozen in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months and reheated in the air fryer or microwave until crispy.

How long to cook drumsticks in the air fryer

Yes, you can cook drumsticks in an air fryer. The cooking time will depend on the size of your drumsticks and the temperature you set your air fryer to. It is important to ensure that your drumsticks are cooked thoroughly, especially because of the tendons that can be found between the meat and the bone. To get rid of this tendon, you may want to overcook the drumsticks slightly.

Before cooking, pat the chicken drumsticks dry with a clean paper towel. Then, season the drumsticks with oil and spices. Be generous with the seasoning and use your hands to really rub it in, especially underneath the skin.

When cooking, do not overcrowd the air fryer basket or tray. The drumsticks need space for the air to circulate, which will ensure they cook evenly and crisp up on all sides. Work in batches if you need to. Most recipes recommend flipping the chicken drumsticks halfway through to ensure even cooking on both sides. However, if you are using a tray with holes and your air fryer has 360° circulation, you may not need to flip them.

There are several different cooking times and temperatures recommended for cooking chicken drumsticks in an air fryer. One source recommends cooking at 400°F for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping the drumsticks once halfway through. Another suggests cooking at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping, and then cooking for an additional 8 minutes. A third option is to cook at 380°F for 10 minutes, flipping after 10 minutes, and then cooking for an additional 7-8 minutes. Yet another source recommends cooking at 390°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

It is important to note that cooking times and temperatures may vary depending on your specific air fryer model. Some air fryers may require preheating, while others do not. To ensure your chicken drumsticks are fully cooked, you can use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F when inserted into the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone.

How to store and reheat air-fried drumsticks

Storing and reheating air-fried chicken drumsticks is a straightforward process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Storing Air-Fried Drumsticks:

• Allow the drumsticks to cool to room temperature.
• Place the drumsticks in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator.
• Consume the drumsticks within 3-5 days.

Freezing Air-Fried Drumsticks:

• Place the drumsticks in a ziplock bag and store them in the freezer.
• Frozen drumsticks can be safely consumed if used within 3 months.

Reheating Air-Fried Drumsticks:

• Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for a few minutes.
• Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
• Place the drumsticks in a single layer in the basket, avoiding overcrowding.
• Reheat at 400°F for 3-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• You can also reheat the drumsticks in a microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Note: The reheating time may vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces and the model of your air fryer. It is important to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F to meet food safety guidelines.

How to cook drumsticks in the oven

Yes, you can cook drumsticks in the oven. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Firstly, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). You can use a rimmed baking sheet lined with high-heat-resistant parchment paper or aluminium foil for easier cleanup. If you don't have a rack, line the pan with paper towels.

Next, prepare the chicken drumsticks. Pat them dry with paper towels and place them in a large mixing bowl. For maximum flavour and juiciness, use bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks. Drizzle cooking oil over the drumsticks, or spray or brush them with olive oil. Sprinkle your chosen seasonings over the drumsticks, then toss them until they are evenly coated. Suggested seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, and Italian seasoning.

Now you're ready to bake the drumsticks. Place them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. If you are cooking more than six drumsticks, you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Bone-in chicken legs may need an extra 2-3 minutes of cooking time. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For optimal tenderness, cook until the internal temperature reaches 175°F (79°C). Check the temperature with an instant-read thermometer, making sure it doesn't touch the bone.

Once the drumsticks are cooked, let them rest for a few minutes. Tenting them lightly with foil will keep them warm and juicy. Finally, serve the drumsticks with your chosen sides and enjoy!

Sides to serve with air-fried drumsticks

Air-fried drumsticks are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Here are some ideas for sides to serve with air-fried drumsticks:

Roasted or air-fried vegetables:

While your drumsticks are cooking in the air fryer, you can use your oven to roast some vegetables. Options such as broccoli, cauliflower, and potatoes are great choices that will pair well with the chicken. You could also try air-fried french fries or roasted potatoes for a crispy and indulgent side dish.

Salads:

A fresh and healthy option to balance out the fried chicken is a salad. A simple arugula salad or spinach strawberry salad will add some greenery to your plate. You could also try something with a little more crunch, like a salad with beans, corn, or cabbage.

Beans:

Spicy beans or baked beans are a great option to serve with drumsticks, especially if you're looking for something hearty and filling. You can easily prepare them while your drumsticks are cooking in the air fryer.

Rice:

Rice pilaf is another side dish that can be prepared on the stovetop while your drumsticks are air-frying. It adds a different texture and flavour to the meal, making it a well-rounded dish.

Quick-pickled beets:

For something a little different, you can try serving your air-fried drumsticks with quick-pickled beets. They add a tangy and crunchy element to the meal, and their vibrant colour will brighten up your plate.

Frequently asked questions