Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Seasoning:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a crispier texture.
- Drizzle the drumsticks with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the drumsticks and toss again to ensure they are well coated.
Step 2: Cook in the Air Fryer
- Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the Drumsticks:
- Place the seasoned drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they do not overlap. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air Fry the Drumsticks:
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The drumsticks should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
- Check for Doneness:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken drumsticks are fully cooked. If necessary, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve:
- Serve the crispy chicken drumsticks immediately with your favorite dipping sauces and sides, such as coleslaw, potato salad, or a fresh garden salad.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Drumsticks
- Uniform Size: Choose drumsticks that are similar in size to ensure even cooking.
- Crispier Skin: For extra crispy skin, you can pat the drumsticks dry again after seasoning and before placing them in the air fryer.
- Marinate for More Flavor: For more intense flavor, marinate the drumsticks in the seasoning and olive oil mixture for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, in the refrigerator.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 23g
Conclusion
Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks are a delicious and easy meal that delivers on both flavor and texture. The air fryer makes this dish quick to prepare, ensuring the chicken is perfectly cooked every time. Enjoy this tasty and satisfying meal with your favorite sides for a complete dinner experience.
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and marinades to customize this recipe to your liking. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, these crispy chicken drumsticks are sure to impress. Happy cooking!