Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

Chicken drumsticks are a great option for a quick, tasty meal, and cooking them in an air fryer is a convenient way to get that crispy skin and juicy meat in under 30 minutes. There are various recipes and methods for cooking chicken drumsticks in an air fryer, with cooking times ranging from 14 to 25 minutes, depending on the temperature and the size of the drumsticks.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for chicken drumsticks in an air fryer vary depending on the recipe and the desired level of crispiness. Most sources recommend cooking chicken drumsticks in an air fryer at a temperature between 380°F and 400°F (180°C to 200°C) for 14 to 30 minutes.

For example, one recipe suggests preheating the air fryer to 400°F and cooking the drumsticks for 12 minutes on one side, then flipping them over and cooking for an additional 10 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 175°F. This recipe yields crispy and juicy chicken drumsticks.

Another recipe recommends cooking the drumsticks at 380°F for 10 minutes, then flipping and cooking for an additional 7 to 9 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This recipe also suggests spraying the drumsticks with oil before cooking and allowing them to rest under foil for 3 to 5 minutes before serving.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken drumsticks. To ensure food safety, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach a minimum of 165°F.

Additionally, for crispy chicken drumsticks, it is recommended to pat the chicken dry before cooking and use baking powder to absorb moisture, as this helps to achieve a crunchy coating.

Seasoning

The cooking time for chicken drumsticks in an air fryer varies depending on the desired level of crispiness and the specific air fryer being used. Most sources recommend cooking chicken drumsticks in the air fryer for around 20 to 25 minutes for juicy and tender meat with a crispy exterior.

Now, onto the seasoning, which is a crucial step in ensuring your chicken drumsticks are packed with flavor. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for seasoning your chicken drumsticks before air frying:

Pat the Chicken Dry:

Start by patting the chicken drumsticks dry with a paper towel. Removing excess moisture from the surface of the chicken will help the seasoning stick better and promote even browning during cooking.

Choose Your Oil:

Drizzling a small amount of oil over the chicken drumsticks will help the seasonings adhere and promote that desirable crispy skin. You can use olive oil, as suggested by several sources, or choose another oil of your preference. Spray oils, such as olive oil or avocado oil spray, can also be used to coat the chicken lightly.

Select Your Seasonings:

For a classic blend of seasonings, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like your chicken with a kick. Alternatively, you can use pre-made seasoning blends or experiment with other herbs and spices of your choice. For a simple option, just salt and pepper can be used to season the chicken drumsticks effectively.

Coat the Chicken:

Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl and drizzle the oil over them. Then, sprinkle your chosen seasonings over the chicken. Using clean hands or kitchen tongs, toss the drumsticks until they are evenly coated in oil and spices. Make sure every inch of those drumsticks is seasoned for maximum flavor!

Air Fryer Prep:

After seasoning, it's time to arrange the chicken drumsticks in the air fryer basket. Place them in a single layer, ensuring they don't overlap and that there is enough space for air to circulate around each drumstick. This step is crucial for even cooking and maximum crispiness.

Baking Powder for Extra Crispness:

For an extra crispy exterior, some sources recommend using baking powder. Baking powder absorbs moisture from the chicken's surface, helping it get crunchier during cooking while keeping the inside juicy. Just be sure to use baking powder and not baking soda, as they have different effects.

Cooking Time and Temperature:

Now, it's time to air fry those beautifully seasoned drumsticks. Most sources recommend cooking chicken drumsticks at temperatures between 380°F (180-190°C) and 400°F (200°C) for around 20 to 25 minutes. Flip the drumsticks halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and browning.

Check for Doneness:

To ensure your chicken drumsticks are safely cooked, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Overcooking can lead to dry and tough meat, so keep an eye on that temperature!

Rest and Serve:

Once your chicken drumsticks have reached the desired temperature, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps retain juices and ensures a tender, juicy bite. Then, serve your delicious, crispy, and well-seasoned chicken drumsticks with your favorite sides!

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and techniques to find your perfect air-fried chicken drumsticks!

Oil

You can use vegetable oil or olive oil for this purpose. First, pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which is key for achieving a crispy texture. Then, place the drumsticks in a bowl and drizzle with oil, turning them until they are evenly coated. You can also brush each drumstick with oil on all sides to ensure the rub sticks and creates a golden, crispy exterior.

Some recipes recommend sprinkling the seasoning over the drumsticks in the bowl and tossing them until they are evenly coated in oil and spices. Others suggest placing the drumsticks in the air fryer basket first and then brushing them with oil. This method may help ensure the drumsticks are not overcrowded in the basket and that they do not stick.

Using oil with your air fryer will help you achieve crispy and juicy chicken drumsticks.

Internal temperature

The internal temperature of the chicken drumsticks is a crucial factor in ensuring they are cooked properly and safely. The recommended minimum internal temperature for chicken drumsticks cooked in an air fryer varies slightly between sources, with most suggesting 165°F (74°C), while others recommend 175°F.

To achieve the desired internal temperature, it is essential to use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the thickest part of the meat. This ensures that the chicken is cooked thoroughly without becoming dry and overcooked. Overcooking can cause the chicken to lose its juicy texture and become tough and dry.

When cooking chicken drumsticks in an air fryer, it is recommended to cook them in a single layer, flipping them halfway through the cooking process. The total cooking time can range from 14 to 30 minutes, depending on the recipe and the size of the drumsticks.

One recipe suggests preheating the air fryer to 400°F and cooking the drumsticks for 12 minutes on one side, then flipping them over and cooking for an additional 10 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 175°F. Another recipe recommends cooking at 390°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the drumsticks and the circulation of heat in the air fryer. Therefore, it is always recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and ensure the chicken is cooked safely and to the desired level of doneness.

Resting

Most sources recommend resting the chicken drumsticks for 3 to 5 minutes before serving. During this time, the internal temperature of the chicken will continue to rise and finish cooking. This is known as carryover cooking. It is important to note that the chicken will continue to cook even after being removed from the air fryer, so it is crucial not to overcook it in the fryer to avoid dryness.

To rest the chicken drumsticks, lightly tent them with aluminum foil. This will help keep them warm and moist. If you wish to add extra flavor, you can brush the drumsticks with BBQ sauce or hot sauce after air frying and before resting.

A meat thermometer is a useful tool to ensure the chicken has reached the recommended internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be considered safe to eat. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, being careful not to touch the bone, as this will give a false reading.

Frequently asked questions