Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

Looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and ready in under 30 minutes? These Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks are the answer! With just a handful of pantry spices and a splash of olive oil, you can turn simple chicken legs into a flavorful, golden-brown main dish that’s perfect for weeknights or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and cook time
  • Crispy without deep frying: The air fryer gives perfect texture—no mess, no oil splatter
  • Versatile: Great for pairing with salads, veggies, or your favorite dipping sauces

Ingredients

  • 8 chicken drumsticks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • Cooking spray (for the air fryer basket)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps the chicken start crisping as soon as it hits the basket.

2. Season the Chicken

Pat the drumsticks dry using paper towels—this is key for crispy skin. Toss them in a large bowl with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme (if using). Mix until well coated.

3. Prep the Basket

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

4. Air Fry

Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding—cook in batches if needed. Air fry for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

5. Rest & Serve

Let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes once out of the air fryer. This helps retain their juices. Garnish with fresh herbs, and serve with your favorite sides or dipping sauces.

Tips for Success

Spicy Variation: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for some heat!

Extra Crispy Tip: Add ½ tsp baking powder to your spice mix for a crunchier skin.

Flavor Boost: Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the drumsticks before serving for a zesty finish.