These air fryer chicken drumsticks are everything you want in a quick, no-fuss dinner. They are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with smoky, savory flavor.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
In a small bowl, mix together oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a marinade
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl.
Pour the marinade over the chicken drumsticks, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Let the chicken drumsticks marinate for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
After marinating, place the chicken drumsticks in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping.
Cook the chicken drumsticks in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Once cooked, remove the chicken drumsticks from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Pat the drumsticks dry before seasoning to help the skin crisp up better in the air fryer.
Preheat your air fryer before adding the chicken to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
Flip the drumsticks halfway through cooking so they brown evenly on all sides.
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket so the hot air can circulate properly and crisp the skin.
Let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat tender.