Air-Fryer Chicken Drumsticks: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

Air fryers are a convenient, quick, and easy way to cook chicken drumsticks. They are a healthier alternative to frying chicken, as very little oil is needed, and they can be customised with different seasonings and sauces. The circulating air in the fryer cooks the chicken evenly, resulting in a tender and juicy inside with a crispy outside.

How to make chicken drumsticks in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Chicken drumsticks (with skin on)
• Olive oil (or another oil of your choice)
• Salt
• Pepper
• Other seasonings of your choice (e.g. paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, etc.)

Method:

• Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with a paper towel.
• Place the drumsticks in a medium-sized bowl and drizzle with olive oil.
• In a separate, smaller bowl, combine your chosen seasonings.
• Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the drumsticks, tossing until they are fully coated.
• Place the chicken legs skin side down in the basket of the air fryer.
• Cook at 380-400°F for 10 minutes.
• Flip the drumsticks and continue to cook for another 7-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.

Tips:

• You can marinate the chicken in the fridge for 30 minutes to overnight before cooking to boost the flavour.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket – make sure the drumsticks have some space around them to ensure even cooking.
• You may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the size of your drumsticks and the model of your air fryer.
• It is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached the correct internal temperature.

How long to cook chicken drumsticks in an air fryer

Yes, you can make chicken drumsticks in an air fryer! Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Ingredients:

• Chicken drumsticks (with skin on for crispiness)
• Olive oil (or any oil of your choice)
• Spices/seasonings of your choice (e.g. smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, pepper, etc.)
• Optional: flour or baking powder for an extra crispy coating

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with a paper towel. This helps the oil and spices stick better. You can also choose to marinate the chicken in a mixture of oil and spices for 30 minutes to overnight before cooking for extra flavour.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix all your desired spices and seasonings. Add the olive oil to the bowl of chicken and then sprinkle with the seasoning mix, tossing until the drumsticks are fully coated.

Step 3: Cook in the Air Fryer

Place the chicken drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don't overlap or stack. Set the air fryer to 380-400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for about 20 minutes, flipping the drumsticks halfway through. The exact cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer and the size of the drumsticks, so it's a good idea to use a meat thermometer to check when they're done. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 4: Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Air fryer chicken drumsticks go well with a variety of side dishes, such as potatoes, French fries, rice, or salad. Enjoy!

Tips to air fry chicken drumsticks

Preheat the Air Fryer

Running your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the chicken is optional but recommended, as it helps the skin to puff up and get a crispy "fried" texture.

Sauce at the End

If you plan to sauce your drumsticks, wait until they have cooked and crisped to toss in the sauce. You can also layer the sauce on to get a crunchy "crust" throughout the cooking, similar to BBQ chicken drumsticks.

Avoid Peeking

Since air fryers are completely sealed off, it's hard to judge the chicken's doneness by its appearance. Check the temperature when you open the fryer to flip the chicken—don't open it just to check the temperature or too much heat will escape.

Use a Digital Thermometer

When your timer goes off, immediately test the temperature of the chicken pieces with a digital thermometer inserted into the middle of the thickest part of the chicken drumstick without touching the bone. Chicken should be cooked to 165°F internally. If the chicken has not reached 165°F, add another 2-5 minutes of cooking time.

Don't Crowd the Basket

Air fryers help get hot air to circulate around the chicken drumstick to achieve a heat so high it makes the meat taste fried. To do this, it helps to not crowd the pan. Put the chicken in your air fryer pan so they aren't crowding each other—it makes a huge difference.

Know Your Air Fryer

While air fryers are a thing of beauty when it comes to cooking, they're all different. Knowing how to work yours will ensure you get perfectly cooked and crispy drumsticks every single time. Temperature, settings, and timings may vary from air fryer to air fryer. For example, some air fryers need to preheat, while others don't.

What to serve with chicken drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks are a versatile main course that can be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded and delicious meal. Here are some ideas for sides that will complement your air-fried drumsticks:

Crispy Roasted Potatoes

Potatoes are a classic side dish for a reason! Consider making crispy roasted potatoes in the air fryer. Simply cut potatoes into wedges or cubes, toss them in olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs. Air fry until golden brown and crispy.

Fresh and Crisp Salad

A fresh salad can provide a great contrast to the crispy, juicy drumsticks. Opt for a classic garden salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette dressing. Or, try a more substantial option like a Caesar salad or a spinach salad with strawberries, nuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette.

Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are a great way to add colour, flavour, and nutrition to your plate. Try grilling asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and perhaps add some crumbled feta cheese on top for an extra touch of flavour.

Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish that goes perfectly with chicken drumsticks. Grill the corn for a smoky flavour, or boil it for a more traditional approach. Serve with butter, salt, and pepper, and perhaps some chopped herbs for added freshness.

Macaroni and Cheese

For a heartier option, macaroni and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser. Make it in the oven or in your air fryer for a crispy topping. This side dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Remember, when deciding on side dishes, consider the flavours and cooking methods that will complement your chicken drumsticks. Choose a variety of sides that offer different textures, colours, and nutritional value to create a well-balanced and tasty meal.

How to check if chicken drumsticks are cooked

There are a few ways to check if your chicken drumsticks are cooked:

• Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a kitchen or meat thermometer: Insert the thermometer into the centre of the chicken, making sure it doesn't touch the bone. The internal temperature should read 165°F or 75°C.
• Check the colour of the meat: Chicken is cooked when it is no longer pink.
• Check the texture of the meat: Chicken is fully cooked when the meat is pulling away from the bone.
• Check the juices of the meat: If the juices run clear, the chicken is cooked.

Frequently asked questions