The ultimate recipe for juicy, tender Air Fryer chicken drumsticks with irresistible crispiness, using just a touch of oil and a few seasonings – no breading required!
You’ll use only a small amount of oil in this recipe—about two tablespoons.
Tips for perfect Air Fryer chicken drumsticks
Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the food so it’s hot and ready when you start cooking the chicken. This step is optional, but it helps the skin puff and develop a beautifully crisp texture.
Don’t peek too often: Since air fryers are compact and closed, opening them too often can significantly affect cooking time and results.
Don’t overcrowd the basket: Air fryers let hot air circulate around the drumsticks so the meat tastes like it’s fried – and for that, it’s essential not to crowd the basket.
Arrange the drumsticks in the basket so they don’t touch—it makes a big difference. If you want something leaner, check out my Air Fryer chicken breasts recipe.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon cumin
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the herbs and spices.
- Set aside.
- Place the drumsticks in a bowl or a plastic bag, then drizzle with olive oil.
- Toss to coat.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the drumsticks, coating evenly.
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C on the “Air Fryer” setting for 2 to 10 minutes.
- Place the drumsticks in the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes at 200°C.
- Remove the basket and flip the drumsticks.
- Cook at 200°C for another 10 minutes.
Not much of a cook, but these air fryer drumsticks came out shockingly crispy on the outside and juicy inside, and I’m kind of proud of myself 😅 The spice mix was so simple that even I didn’t mess it up!
These air fryer drumsticks came out so juicy with perfectly crispy skin, and my husband couldn’t stop raving about them. He’s already asked if I can make them again next week 😊
These air fryer drumsticks came out so juicy with perfectly crispy skin, and my spouse couldn’t stop raving about them and asked if we can add them to our weekly rotation 😊
Came out insanely crispy and juicy, making again tomorrow! 😍