Step 1: Prepare the Drumsticks
- Clean and Pat Dry: Rinse the chicken drumsticks under cold water and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Removing moisture is crucial for getting a crispy skin.
- Season the Chicken: Place the drumsticks in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the spice mix over the chicken and toss until each drumstick is evenly coated with the spices.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat up for about 3-5 minutes. Most air fryers require preheating for optimal cooking results.
Step 3: Cook the Drumsticks
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they are not touching to ensure even airflow and cooking.
- Cook: Air fry the drumsticks for about 20-25 minutes. Use tongs to flip each drumstick halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and crispiness.
Step 4: Check Doneness
- Temperature Check: The safest way to check if the chicken is done is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the drumstick, not touching the bone.
Step 5: Serve
- Rest and Serve: Let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes after cooking. Serve hot with your choice of sides like coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. They’re also great with dipping sauces such as ranch, blue cheese, or a spicy buffalo sauce.
Conclusion
Air fryer chicken drumsticks are an excellent option for a quick weeknight meal or a casual get-together. They provide all the satisfaction of crispy, juicy chicken with a fraction of the oil used in traditional frying methods. Enjoy the ease and health benefits of air frying and the delicious results it yields with your favorite cuts of chicken.