Air-Fryer Bbq Chicken Drumsticks: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Making BBQ chicken drumsticks in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a delicious, juicy, and tender meal on the table in under 30 minutes. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner and is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

The air fryer method is a convenient, hassle-free way to cook chicken drumsticks to perfection, with a crispy exterior and a juicy, flavourful middle. This recipe uses simple, common ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, making it an accessible and affordable meal option.

Choosing and preparing your chicken drumsticks

Choosing the Right Chicken Drumsticks:

• Opt for fresh chicken drumsticks whenever possible. If you're using frozen drumsticks, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
• Look for drumsticks with skin on. The skin helps create a crispy texture in the air fryer and adds to the overall taste.
• Plan to use 5-6 drumsticks for a single batch in the air fryer. This ensures they cook evenly and don't overcrowd the basket.
• If you're serving a larger group, you can double the recipe, but cook the drumsticks in batches to maintain even cooking.

Preparing the Chicken Drumsticks:

• Before adding any seasonings or oil, pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better and promotes even cooking.
• In a small bowl, mix your chosen seasonings. Common seasonings include garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and cayenne pepper for a kick.
• Add the drumsticks to a large bowl or ziplock bag. Pour in the oil and seasonings, then coat the drumsticks evenly. Massage the mixture into the drumsticks for a few minutes to enhance the flavour.
• For an extra crispy exterior, combine the seasonings with a small amount of baking powder. This is a secret trick to achieving that perfect crispiness!
• If you have time, let the drumsticks marinate in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This step is optional but enhances the flavour even further.

Making your own BBQ sauce

Ingredients:

• Ketchup
• Apple cider vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
• Water
• Brown sugar
• Tamari or soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce for a non-vegetarian option)
• Yellow mustard
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Ground cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicier sauce)

Instructions:

• Combine all the ingredients in a medium saucepan. Play around with the measurements to find the right balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy for your taste.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
• Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
• Remove from the heat and let it cool. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.
• Store the BBQ sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze it for later use.

Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like liquid smoke, honey, or different types of spices to make your sauce truly unique. Enjoy your homemade BBQ chicken drumsticks!

Preparing your air fryer

Before you begin, it is important to note that you should always refer to your air fryer's user manual for specific instructions and safety guidelines. Different models may have unique features or requirements, so consulting the manual is essential.

Now, let's get into the details of preparing your air fryer:

• Preheating: Depending on the model, some air fryers require preheating, while others don't. If your air fryer needs preheating, set it to the desired temperature, usually around 380-400 degrees Fahrenheit, and let it heat up for a few minutes before adding the chicken. This step ensures that your air fryer is ready to cook the food evenly.
• Cleanliness: Make sure your air fryer is clean before using it. Wipe down the interior, including the basket or tray, with a damp cloth to remove any residue or leftover food particles from previous uses. A clean air fryer not only ensures better-tasting food but also helps maintain food safety.
• Spraying with Oil: To prevent sticking and promote even cooking, it is recommended to spray the air fryer basket or tray with a light coating of oil. You can use a propellant-free nonstick cooking spray or a refillable oil mister. Avoid using sprays with propellants as they can damage the non-stick coating over time.
• Preparing the Basket: Place the chicken drumsticks in the air fryer basket or tray in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. This allows the hot air to circulate properly and ensures even cooking. If you have a larger batch of chicken, you may need to cook them in multiple batches.
• Temperature and Timing: Set the temperature and timer according to your recipe instructions. Most recipes recommend cooking chicken drumsticks at around 380-400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The exact temperature and timing may vary, so refer to your specific recipe for the best results.
• Safety: Always use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves when handling the air fryer basket or tray, as they can get extremely hot. Additionally, be cautious of any hot air that escapes when opening the air fryer, especially if you have young children or pets around.
• Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken drumsticks are fully cooked, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, being careful not to touch the bone, as this can give an inaccurate reading.

By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to preparing your air fryer for making mouthwatering BBQ chicken drumsticks. Remember to always refer to your air fryer's user manual and specific recipe instructions for the best results.

Cooking your chicken drumsticks

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it's time to cook your chicken drumsticks in the air fryer. Here's a detailed, step-by-step guide to ensure perfect results:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This step is important as it helps the seasonings stick to the chicken better. You can also trim any excess fat or skin from the drumsticks if you prefer.

Step 2: Mix the Seasonings

In a small bowl, combine your chosen seasonings. The specific seasonings you use can vary based on your taste preferences and the recipe you're following. Common seasonings for BBQ chicken drumsticks include garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. Don't forget to add a small amount of oil (such as olive oil or avocado oil) to the seasoning mix, as this will help it adhere to the chicken.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Add the drumsticks to the bowl with the seasoning mix and coat them evenly. Use your hands or a brush to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed over each drumstick. Massage the drumsticks for a few minutes to help the flavours absorb and penetrate the meat.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature, typically between 380-400 degrees Fahrenheit. Most air fryers have adjustable temperature settings, so refer to your specific model's instructions. Preheating ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and helps to create a crispy texture.

Step 5: Arrange the Chicken in the Air Fryer

Place the seasoned chicken drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the drumsticks in batches. Leave some space between each drumstick to allow for even cooking and proper air circulation.

Step 6: Initial Cooking

Cook the chicken drumsticks for the recommended time, which can range from 10 to 15 minutes. Then, use tongs to flip the drumsticks and cook for an additional 5 to 8 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your drumsticks and the specific air fryer model, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Step 7: Baste with BBQ Sauce

Once the initial cooking is complete, it's time to add that delicious BBQ flavour. Remove the air fryer basket and generously baste the chicken drumsticks with your favourite BBQ sauce. Make sure to coat both sides of the chicken evenly. You can also add some extra sauce to the uncooked side of the drumsticks before flipping them for the final cooking stage.

Step 8: Final Cooking

Return the air fryer basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. This final step helps to caramelise the BBQ sauce, giving it that sticky, mouthwatering glaze. It also ensures that the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, which is important for food safety.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the chicken drumsticks from the air fryer and serve them hot. You can add an extra coat of BBQ sauce at this stage if desired. These juicy, tender, and flavourful BBQ chicken drumsticks are perfect for a weeknight dinner, game day, or any occasion. Don't forget to provide plenty of napkins, as things might get a little messy!

Serving suggestions

Sides

• Air fryer French fries, sweet potato fries, or baby potatoes
• Tater tots
• Green beans almondine
• Potato salad
• Air fryer carrots or baby carrots
• Macaroni and cheese
• Corn with jalapeno
• Sweet cornbread
• Broccoli kale slaw
• Air fryer asparagus
• Oven fries
• Bagged salad kit

Dips

• BBQ sauce
• Marinara
• Salad dressing

Drinks

Beer, especially for game day or a BBQ party

Desserts

Almond flour cornbread

For a Full Meal

• Pair with chicken tenders, chicken parm, or chicken wings for a full meal of different chicken dishes
• Make sandwiches, sliders, wraps, or salads with leftover chicken meat

Frequently asked questions