Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

These juicy air fryer drumsticks are guaranteed to be your new weeknight meal go-to. Not only are they budget-friendly, they also cook in just 20 minutes. The chicken is coated in a barbecue-inspired rub, delivering savory and smoky flavor with single bite. Plus, the drumsticks pair perfectly with any number of dipping sauces, from classic ranch and blue cheese to chili crisp and tzatziki. Enjoy them fresh from the air fryer when they’re piping hot, or as leftovers straight from the fridge throughout the week. Chicken dinners don't get easier than this!

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Can you put raw chicken in an air fryer?

Yes, it is completely safe to put raw meat in the air fryer, as long as you cook it to the correct temperature. For chicken, that's a minimum of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the USDA. Keep in mind, you should clean your air fryer after every use.

Do you need to spray chicken with oil before air frying?

This recipe calls for skipping the spray oil altogether. Instead, the chicken is coated with vegetable oil before being generously seasoned with a homemade spice blend. Chicken drumsticks come with a naturally delicious fatty skin that keeps the meat moist and prevents the chicken from sticking to the air fryer. As the fat renders during cooking, the skin also becomes delightfully crisp.

Do you need to flip air fryer chicken drumsticks?

Yes. Air fryers circulate heat well, but most basket-style models heat from the top. To ensure your chicken drumsticks cook evenly and develop crispy and golden skin all over, you should flip them halfway through cooking.