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Golden crispy air fryer chicken drumsticks with herbs and seasonings on white plate

Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Crispy Perfection

This air fryer chicken drumsticks recipe delivers crispy perfection with juicy, tender meat in just 30 minutes. A healthier alternative to deep frying with maximum flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings (2 drumsticks each)
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 chicken drumsticks skin on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Method
 

  1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Coat drumsticks with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  3. Mix baking powder, pepper, garlic powder, salt, and paprika.
  4. Toss drumsticks in seasoning mixture, coating evenly.
  5. Brush remaining tablespoon olive oil over drumsticks.
  6. Arrange in air fryer basket in single layer without touching.
  7. Cook at 400°F for 10 minutes.
  8. Flip drumsticks and cook another 10 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Check internal temperature (165°F / 75°C). Rest 2-3 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not substitute baking soda for baking powder. For maximum crispiness, avoid overcrowding the basket and always flip halfway through cooking.