Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

5 from 2 ratings

This recipe for air fryer chicken drumsticks transforms humble drumsticks into fabulously tender chicken with a good sweet, savory, and smoky marinade. It’s going to be a favorite!

Prep Time30

Cook Time20

Total Time50

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: air fryer chicken recipe, chicken drumsticks in air fryer, how to cook chicken drumsticks in an air fryer

Servings:

Author: Sarah Cook

Equipment

Ingredients

1.5 lbs chicken drumsticks, bone-in, skin on {~5-6 drumsticks}
2 tbsp olive oil {plus more for the air fryer basket}
2 tsp low-sodium soy sauce
1/2 tsp kosher salt {I used Diamond Crystal}
1 tsp garlic powder
1/8 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp brown sugar

Instructions

Pat chicken drumsticks with a paper towel.
1.5 lbs chicken drumsticks, bone-in, skin on
In a medium mixing bowl whisk to combine olive oil, soy sauce, and the dry seasonings.
2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tsp low-sodium soy sauce, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/8 tsp ground black pepper, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp brown sugar
Add drumsticks and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 36 hours.
Preheat the air fryer at 350˚F for 5 minutes.
Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil.
Place drumsticks in the air fryer basket and cook at 350˚F for 10 minutes.
Carefully flip the chicken and brush on any marinade remaining in the bowl.
Cook for an additional 8-14 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 170-175˚F.
Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use an instant-read thermometer to test each drumstick. The internal temp can vary depending on the thickness of the chicken.
If you like extra crispy skin, cook the drumsticks at 400˚F for the last 1-3 minutes.
This recipe will serve 2-3 people.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before you cut or eat it. This resting period allows the juices to reabsorb back into the meat so it’s tender and juicy.

Nutrition