Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks - Budget-Friendly Dinner
Juicy air fryer chicken drumsticks with extra crispy skin. Budget-friendly family dinner ready in 25 minutes!
Instructions
- Step 1: Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels
- Step 2: Place in large bowl and drizzle with olive oil
- Step 3: In small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, pepper, and cayenne
- Step 4: Sprinkle seasoning mix over drumsticks and rub to coat evenly
- Step 5: Let sit for 10 minutes to marinate
- Step 6: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (204°C)
- Step 7: Place drumsticks in air fryer basket, not overcrowding (may need to cook in batches)
- Step 8: Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through
- Step 9: Check internal temperature reaches 175-180°F (79-82°C) for fall-off-bone tenderness
- Step 10: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving
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Perfect Drumsticks Tips
- Pat very dry: Key to crispy skin
- Don't overcrowd: Allows air circulation
- Higher temp: 400°F creates crispy skin
- Flip once: Ensures even browning
- Use thermometer: Guarantees perfect doneness
Seasoning Variations
BBQ:
- Brush with BBQ sauce last 5 minutes
Honey Garlic:
- Honey, soy sauce, garlic glaze
Lemon Herb:
- Lemon zest, rosemary, thyme
Buffalo:
- Toss with buffalo sauce after cooking
Teriyaki:
- Marinate in teriyaki sauce
Cajun:
- Heavy Cajun seasoning
Korean:
- Gochujang, sesame, ginger
Cooking Time by Size
Small drumsticks: 18-20 minutes Medium drumsticks: 20-25 minutes Large drumsticks: 25-28 minutes
Always check internal temperature!
Serving Ideas
Family Dinner:
- Serve with mashed potatoes
- Add coleslaw
- Include corn on the cob
Game Day:
- Arrange on platter
- Multiple dipping sauces
- Wet wipes nearby
Meal Prep:
- Cook batch for week
- Great cold or reheated
- Use in salads or wraps
Side Dish Pairings
- French fries
- Mac and cheese
- Green beans
- Potato salad
- Biscuits
- Coleslaw
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Up to 4 days Freeze: Up to 3 months Reheat: Air fryer at 375°F for 8-10 minutes
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