Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks (Restaurant-worthy at Home!)

Craving crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken drumsticks without the mess and hassle of deep frying? Look no further than your trusty air fryer! This recipe for Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks unlocks the secrets to restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own kitchen, all in under 30 minutes.

Fast, Easy, and Healthy:

Air frying offers a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying, using significantly less oil to achieve a remarkably crispy exterior and juicy, tender interior. This recipe is incredibly simple, requiring minimal prep work and readily available ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Restaurant-Quality at Home: Air frying technology allows you to achieve that coveted crispy skin and juicy meat, replicating the satisfaction of restaurant-style drumsticks without the added fat.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• Healthy and Delicious: Air frying uses significantly less oil than deep frying, making this a healthier option for enjoying your favorite chicken drumsticks.
• Simple and Customizable: The basic recipe offers a delicious base, but feel free to experiment with different seasonings and marinades to personalize the flavor profile to your liking.
• Family-Friendly: These crispy drumsticks are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, sure to be enjoyed by adults and children alike.

Ingredients (for 4 servings):

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon your favorite dry rub (options include cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, etc.)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnishes: chopped fresh parsley, hot sauce, blue cheese dressing

Instructions:

1. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps ensure crispy skin.

2. In a bowl, toss the chicken drumsticks with olive oil and your chosen dry rub. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

4. Arrange the chicken drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. (Cooking in batches may be necessary depending on the size of your air fryer.)

5. Air fry for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the drumstick reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.

6. If desired, for extra crispy skin, increase the heat to 425°F (220°C) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley (optional), and your favorite dipping sauces like hot sauce or blue cheese dressing.

Tips:

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. This allows for proper air circulation and ensures even crisping.

Final Thoughts:

Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks are a game-changer for busy cooks seeking a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fried chicken. With minimal prep work, quick cooking time, and restaurant-worthy results, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your weeknight routine. So, fire up your air fryer, grab your favorite seasonings, and get ready to experience the crispy perfection of these delightful chicken drumsticks!