Description
Enjoy restaurant-quality chicken drumsticks that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, all made in an air fryer.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Chopped parsley for serving
Instructions
- Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Place drumsticks in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil; toss to coat evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and brown sugar (if using).
- Sprinkle the spice mix over the drumsticks and rub it in so each piece is well coated. Let rest for 10–15 minutes.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Arrange drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between pieces.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, flip, then cook for another 8–10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For extra-crispy skin, spray lightly with oil and cook an additional 1–2 minutes.
Notes
Always pat drumsticks dry for crispiness and do not overcrowd them in the air fryer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American