There’s nothing easier—or tastier—than crispy chicken drumsticks straight from the air fryer.
With just a handful of spices, you’ll have juicy, golden-brown drumsticks ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a quick family dinner or game-day snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The air fryer makes the skin crisp while keeping the inside juicy.
Simple spices give big flavor without marinating overnight.
It’s quick, easy, and healthier than deep frying.
Pairs well with almost any dipping sauce.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Chicken drumsticks are meaty and budget-friendly.
Olive oil helps the spices stick and promotes crisping.
Paprika, garlic powder, and cumin add smoky, savory flavor.
Sea salt and cracked pepper keep it classic.
Optional ranch + hot sauce makes a creamy, spicy dip.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Preheat the air fryer for best crisping results.
Flip halfway through so all sides cook evenly.
Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer (165°F is safe).
Drizzle with a squeeze of lemon just before serving for brightness.
How to Make Chicken Drumsticks in the Air Fryer
Step 1 – Mix the spices
Combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin in a small bowl.
Step 2 – Coat the chicken
Place drumsticks in a bowl or bag, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat.
Sprinkle with the spice blend.
Step 3 – Preheat the air fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for 2–10 minutes.
Step 4 – Cook the drumsticks
Arrange drumsticks in the basket in a single layer.
Cook for 10 minutes. Flip, then cook another 10 minutes.
Step 5 – Check doneness
Use a thermometer to confirm the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F.
Add an extra 5 minutes if needed.
Step 6 – Serve
Serve immediately with your favorite dip.
Mix ranch dressing with hot sauce for a quick spicy ranch dip.
What to Serve Them With
Great with fries or potato wedges for a comfort meal.
Pair with roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner.
Serve with coleslaw or salad to lighten things up.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap drumsticks for thighs or wings.
Use smoked paprika for a bolder flavor.
Make it spicy by adding cayenne to the seasoning mix.
Try BBQ sauce glaze for a sticky, sweet version.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freeze cooked drumsticks for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen drumsticks?
Yes, but thaw them first for even cooking.
Do I need to marinate the chicken?
No, the spice rub gives plenty of flavor.
Can I stack the chicken in the basket?
It’s best to keep them in a single layer for crispiness.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
Bake at 425°F in the oven for about 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Lightly spray with olive oil before cooking.
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, just reduce the cooking time and check for doneness.
Final Thoughts
These air fryer chicken drumsticks are flavorful, crispy, and unbelievably simple.
Whether you serve them as a main dish or a snack, they’ll be a crowd favorite every time.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.