Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients (serves 3–4)
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8–10 chicken drumsticks
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1½ tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
Dry Rub (this is the magic)
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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¾ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp chili powder
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½ tsp brown sugar (helps caramelization 🔥)
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¼ tsp cayenne (optional, for heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the chicken (VERY important)
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Pat drumsticks completely dry with paper towels.
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This step is what gives you crispy skin instead of rubbery skin.
Optional pro move:
Let the drumsticks sit uncovered in the fridge for 30–60 minutes to dry the skin even more.
2. Season
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Put drumsticks in a large bowl.
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Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
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Sprinkle all the dry rub ingredients over the chicken.
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Massage seasoning into every crevice.
👉 You want the chicken looking dark and evenly coated before cooking.
Air Fryer Method (best result)
3. Preheat
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Preheat air fryer to 400°F (205°C) for 3–5 minutes.
4. Cook
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Arrange drumsticks in a single layer, not touching.
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Cook for 10 minutes.
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Flip drumsticks.
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Cook another 10 minutes.
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Flip again and cook 5–7 more minutes until:
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Skin is dark, blistered, and crispy
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Internal temp hits 175–185°F (drumsticks are best a little higher than 165)
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Total time: 25–27 minutes
5. Rest
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Let chicken rest 5 minutes before eating.
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Juices redistribute = super juicy meat.
Optional Flavor Finishes
Want to level it up even more?
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BBQ glaze: Brush BBQ sauce during last 3 minutes
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Garlic butter: Toss hot drumsticks with melted butter + minced garlic
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Honey heat: Drizzle with hot honey right before serving 🍯🔥
Oven Method (if needed)
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
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Place drumsticks on a wire rack over a baking sheet
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Bake 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway
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Broil last 2–3 minutes for extra char
Serving Ideas
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Serve with fries, coleslaw, or roasted veggies
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Dip in ranch, blue cheese, or spicy mayo
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Perfect for game night or meal prep
