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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks Recipe Easy Homemade Savory Spice Blend

crispy air fryer chicken drumsticks - featured image

This recipe delivers crispy, flavorful chicken drumsticks cooked in an air fryer using a savory homemade spice blend. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds/900g), skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked paprika optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (kosher salt recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to blend all the flavors evenly.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the drumsticks with olive oil and baking powder until evenly coated.
  4. Sprinkle the savory spice blend over the chicken and toss again until each drumstick is covered.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it run empty for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding.
  7. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. If desired, cook 2-3 minutes longer for extra crispiness, watching closely to avoid burning.
  9. Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is crucial for crispiness. Use baking powder (not baking soda) to achieve a light, crispy skin. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. Flip drumsticks halfway through cooking. Let rest before serving. For reheating, use the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Variations include adding chili powder, fresh herbs, or a touch of brown sugar to the spice blend.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken drumsticks, crispy chicken, easy chicken recipe, savory spice blend, healthy fried chicken, quick dinner, gluten-free chicken