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Easy Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

Delightful crispy chicken drumsticks with minimal effort, perfect for weeknights or family gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 pieces
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 5-6 pieces chicken drumsticks Thawed if previously frozen.
  • 1/8 cup extra virgin olive oil

Seasonings

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • a pinch cayenne pepper Optional for heat.

Basting Sauce

  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce Recommended: Sweet Baby Ray's.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
  • Pat dry chicken drumsticks with a paper towel.
  • In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until well mixed.
  • Generously coat each drumstick in the oil mixture, massaging it into each piece.

Cooking

  • Place drumsticks in air fryer basket in a single layer.
  • Cook for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • In the last few minutes, baste with BBQ sauce, flip and baste the other side. Cook for another 3-5 minutes.
  • Remove from air fryer and baste with additional BBQ sauce before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider dry brining the drumsticks with salt the night before. Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor. Optionally add lemon zest for a zesty twist.
Keyword Air Fryer Chicken, Comfort Food, Crispy Chicken, Easy Chicken Drumsticks, Quick Dinner