Tired of greasy, oven-baked drumsticks? Craving a quick and easy weeknight dinner that's also incredibly delicious? Then you've come to the right place! This air fryer drumstick recipe delivers crispy, juicy perfection without the fuss. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
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Prep the Drumsticks: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures extra crispy skin. Dryness is key to achieving that perfect air fryer crunch.
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Season Generously: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the drumsticks and toss to coat them evenly. Make sure every drumstick is generously seasoned – this is where the flavor magic happens.
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Air Fry to Perfection: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they're not overcrowded. Overcrowding will lead to uneven cooking. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.
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Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in extra tender and flavorful meat. Serve them hot and enjoy!
Tips for Extra Crispy Drumsticks:
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: This ensures even airflow and optimal crispiness. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use a good quality olive oil: It adds flavor and helps the seasoning stick to the chicken.
- Flip the drumsticks halfway through cooking: This ensures even browning and cooking on all sides.
- Check the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Delicious Variations:
- Lemon Herb Drumsticks: Add the zest and juice of one lemon, along with 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
- Spicy Buffalo Drumsticks: Toss the cooked drumsticks in your favorite buffalo wing sauce for a fiery kick.
- Honey Garlic Drumsticks: After cooking, brush the drumsticks with a mixture of honey and soy sauce for a sweet and savory glaze.
Nutritional Information (per drumstick, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 8-12g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
This easy recipe makes for a fantastic weeknight dinner or a delightful addition to your next get-together. The best recipes are often the simplest, and these air fryer drumsticks prove that perfectly. Enjoy!