Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks: Timing Perfection

Chicken drumsticks are a versatile dish that can be made in an air fryer with a variety of seasonings and sauces. The cooking time for chicken drumsticks in an air fryer varies depending on the desired level of doneness, but on average, it takes around 18 to 25 minutes to cook them thoroughly.

To ensure even cooking, it is recommended to flip the drumsticks halfway through the cooking process. The ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C).

Some recipes suggest preheating the air fryer, while others recommend cooking the drumsticks without preheating. It is also suggested to use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the chicken by inserting it into the thickest part of the drumstick without touching the bone.

Air fryer chicken drumsticks are a convenient, tasty, and healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, resulting in juicy meat with a crispy exterior.

How to season chicken drumsticks for the air fryer

Chicken drumsticks are a versatile dish that can be seasoned in a variety of ways to suit your taste preferences. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to season chicken drumsticks for the air fryer, along with some tips and variations to consider:

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Prepare the Chicken

Start by gathering your ingredients, which typically include chicken drumsticks, olive oil or another type of oil, and a variety of seasonings. You can pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels before placing them in a medium-sized bowl. It is important to ensure that the chicken is dry so that the seasoning adheres well to the surface.

Step 2: Create Your Seasoning Blend

In a separate, smaller bowl, combine your chosen seasonings. The specific seasonings you use can vary depending on your taste preferences and the desired flavour profile. Here are some common options:

• Smoked paprika
• Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Brown sugar or a brown sugar substitute
• Salt and pepper
• Chili powder
• Basil
• Oregano
• Rosemary
• Thyme

Feel free to experiment with different combinations and amounts of seasonings to find your perfect blend. You can also try premade blends like taco or ranch seasoning.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken with Oil and Seasonings

Add the olive oil or your chosen oil to the bowl of chicken and toss until the drumsticks are evenly coated. Then, sprinkle your seasoning blend generously over the oiled chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. You can use your hands or a spoon to distribute the seasonings evenly.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken in the Air Fryer

Once your chicken is seasoned, you can place them in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each drumstick to ensure even cooking. Follow the cooking instructions provided by your air fryer, typically cooking at around 380°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Tips and Variations:

• You can also try a unique coating, such as coating the drumsticks in a spicy mayo marinade and then coating them in cornflakes before air frying, for an extra crispy texture.
• If you want to add a sauce to your chicken, it is recommended to add it during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking or burning the sauce.
• Leftover chicken drumsticks can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days or frozen for up to 3-4 months.
• It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of your drumsticks and the model of your air fryer, so adjust the timing accordingly.

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and sauces to find your favourite combinations!

How long to cook chicken drumsticks in the air fryer

The cooking time for chicken drumsticks in an air fryer depends on the number of drumsticks being cooked, the power of the air fryer, and the desired level of crispiness. On average, chicken drumsticks take between 18 to 25 minutes to cook in an air fryer.

Preparation

Before cooking, the chicken drumsticks should be patted dry with paper towels and placed in a medium-sized bowl. It is also recommended to coat the chicken with a mixture of spices and oil to add flavour and crispiness.

Cooking

When cooking, it is important to ensure that the air fryer is not overcrowded and that the drumsticks are placed in a single layer, not touching each other. The air fryer should be preheated to a temperature between 375°F (190°C) and 400°F (200°C).

The cooking time can vary depending on the size and number of drumsticks, but on average, they should be cooked for around 18 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. It is recommended to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through. The minimum safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (74°C).

Serving

Chicken drumsticks can be served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, gravy, and peas, or coleslaw, potato salad, or roasted vegetables.

Storage

Leftover chicken drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

How to check if chicken drumsticks are cooked

Chicken drumsticks are cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C). This temperature kills off harmful bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli.

The best way to check the internal temperature of chicken is with a meat thermometer. This should be inserted into the thickest part of the drumstick, making sure it is not touching the bone. If the thermometer reads 165°F, the chicken is cooked.

If you do not have a meat thermometer, there are other ways to check if chicken drumsticks are cooked:

• Check if the meat has started to shrink away from the bone. This is a good indicator that the chicken is cooked through.
• Look at the meat on the skinny side of the leg. When cooked, you should be able to see more bone than you could when the drumsticks were raw.
• Cut into the thickest part of the chicken and check the colour. Cooked chicken should be firm, white, and opaque, and the juices should run clear.

It is worth noting that, even if the juices run clear, the chicken may not be cooked. This is because fully cooked chicken can sometimes have pink meat and/or red juices due to the presence of haemoglobin, smoking or grilling, or the acidity of the tissues.

What to serve with air-fried chicken drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Potatoes

A classic side dish, potatoes can be prepared in a variety of ways to accompany your air-fried chicken drumsticks. Some options include:

• Potato wedges
• Funeral potatoes
• Stuffed baked potatoes
• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted potatoes

Vegetables

A range of vegetables can also be served as a side dish. Some options that would complement the chicken drumsticks include:

• Beans
• Corn casserole
• Brussel sprouts
• Japanese potato salad
• Quick-pickled beets
• Air fryer asparagus and mushrooms

Salads

If you're looking for something lighter, a salad can be a great option to serve with the chicken drumsticks. Try a:

Rice pilaf

Other Sides

For something a little different, you could try:

• Cornflakes
• Biscuits
• BBQ sauce
• Honey mustard
• Ranch dressing
• Hot sauce

How to store leftover chicken drumsticks

Air-fried chicken drumsticks are a tasty, quick and easy meal to make. But what happens when you have leftovers? Here are some tips on how to store leftover chicken drumsticks to keep them fresh and tasty:

Storing in the Fridge

Leftover chicken drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for 4-5 days. This method is ideal if you plan on eating the drumsticks within a few days, as it keeps the chicken moist and flavourful. Place the drumsticks in a single layer in the container to ensure even cooling and prevent spoilage.

Freezing Leftovers

If you have a large number of leftovers or don't plan on eating the drumsticks within the next few days, freezing is a great option. Air fryer chicken drumsticks can be frozen for up to 3-4 months in a ziplock bag or airtight container. This method ensures the drumsticks remain fresh for more extended periods and is perfect for making a large batch to enjoy over several months.

Reheating

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover drumsticks, there are a few simple ways to reheat them while maintaining their crispy texture. You can microwave them for 20-30 seconds for a quick reheat or place them in the air fryer for a few minutes until crispy. This ensures you can enjoy the same delicious taste and texture as when they were freshly cooked.

Creative Leftover Ideas

Leftover chicken drumsticks can be used in various creative ways to make new, exciting dishes. You can pick the meat off the bones and use it in recipes such as chicken salad, nachos, wraps, quesadillas, or soups. Get creative and experiment with different spices and sauces to find your favourite way to enjoy leftover chicken drumsticks.

Frequently asked questions