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A plate of air fryer chicken drumsticks.
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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

These Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with bold, savory flavor. Made with a simple pantry spice blend and cooked to perfection in under 25 minutes, this easy dinner recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, summer meals, or game day spreads. No breading required, just perfectly seasoned, golden-brown chicken every time!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time18 minutes
Resting time5 minutes
Total Time28 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Author: Dan Zehr from Platter Talk

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken drumsticks about 6 drumsticks
  • 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder optional, for extra crispy skin
  • Fresh chopped parsley optional garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3–5 minutes.
  • Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp properly.
  • In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and baking powder (if using).
  • Brush the drumsticks with olive oil and coat evenly. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken and ensure it is coated fully.
  • Arrange drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Cook at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is crispy.
  • Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning. Moisture prevents crisping.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.
  • The baking powder helps draw moisture from the skin, creating extra crispiness.
  • Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Let the chicken rest before serving to keep it juicy.

Nutrition

Calories: 294kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 140mg | Sodium: 741mg | Potassium: 419mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 441IU | Vitamin C: 0.02mg | Calcium: 41mg | Iron: 1mg

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