Air Fry Chicken Drumsticks

If you’re looking for a quick, foolproof way to enjoy crispy and juicy chicken legs, this recipe for air fry chicken drumsticks is the answer. With just a handful of simple spices, a splash of oil, and 25 minutes in the air fryer, you’ll have perfectly seasoned chicken drumsticks that are golden on the outside and tender inside.

Unlike deep frying, air frying delivers the same crunchy texture without the excess grease, making it a healthier choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Whether you’re making dinner for the family, prepping game-day snacks, or just craving comfort food, these air fry chicken drumsticks will become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the best crispy chicken drumsticks in the air fryer:

4–6 chicken drumsticks
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (canola oil works great)
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste if you prefer less spice)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Place the chicken drumsticks in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with vegetable oil, then add smoked paprika, chili powder, ground black pepper, and salt. Use your hands or tongs to coat the drumsticks evenly, making sure each piece is well-seasoned.

Step 2: Prepare the Air Fryer

There’s no need to preheat your air fryer for this recipe. Simply arrange the drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding or stacking the chicken so that the hot air can circulate freely—this is what makes them crispy.

Step 3: Cook the Drumsticks

Set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and cook the drumsticks for 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cooking time is up, check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) for safe eating. Remove the drumsticks, let them rest for a few minutes, and serve them hot. They’ll be juicy, flavorful, and ready to enjoy with your favorite sides or dipping sauces.

About the Recipe

Why You’ll Love Air Fry Chicken Drumsticks

Air frying chicken drumsticks is the ultimate combination of ease, speed, and taste. Unlike baking, which can take much longer, or frying, which requires lots of oil, the air fryer creates a crispy skin and juicy meat in less than half an hour. The seasoning blend of smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper strikes the perfect balance of smoky, savory, and slightly spicy flavors.

Variations You Can Try

BBQ Air Fry Chicken Drumsticks: Cook the drumsticks for 20 minutes, then brush with BBQ sauce and return to the air fryer for 5 more minutes.
Buffalo-Style Drumsticks: Toss the cooked drumsticks in hot sauce after air frying for a tangy, spicy kick.
Herb and Garlic Drumsticks: Replace paprika and chili powder with garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herbs for a classic flavor profile.

Helpful Tips for Success

Dry the chicken first: Pat drumsticks with paper towels before seasoning to help the skin crisp up.
Flip halfway: Turning the drumsticks ensures they cook evenly and develop a uniform golden crust.
Don’t overcrowd: Space between the drumsticks allows hot air to circulate, giving you that crunchy finish.
Use a meat thermometer: Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F to avoid undercooked chicken.

Serving Suggestions

These air fry chicken drumsticks are versatile and pair well with so many sides. Try them with:

Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables
A crisp garden salad or coleslaw
Dipping sauces like ranch, Caesar, or honey mustard
Classic fries, sweet potato fries, or corn on the cob

Whether you serve them as the main dish for dinner or as part of a party spread, these drumsticks never disappoint.

Nutrition Insights

One chicken drumstick comes in at about 155 calories, with 14g of protein and 11g of fat. Since these drumsticks are cooked in the air fryer with minimal oil, they’re significantly lighter than deep-fried chicken while still delivering all the flavor and crunch you crave.

Conclusion

Cooking air fry chicken drumsticks couldn’t be simpler—or tastier. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have crispy, juicy, and well-seasoned chicken legs that are perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or meal prep. With endless variations and plenty of serving options, this recipe is a reliable crowd-pleaser that you’ll come back to again and again.

So fire up your air fryer, grab your favorite spices, and give these drumsticks a try tonight. Your family and friends will love every bite, and you’ll love how quick and easy they are to make!

Ingredients