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Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

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4.4 from 56 reviews

Delicious and juicy chicken drumsticks cooked to perfection in the air fryer with a smoky, flavorful marinade and coated in tangy BBQ sauce. This easy recipe delivers crispy skin and tender meat in less than 40 minutes, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Chicken Drumsticks

  • 10 chicken drumsticks

Marinade

  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper

Sauce

  • ½ cup BBQ sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
  2. Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together avocado oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
  3. Marinate Drumsticks: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels, then place them in a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the drumsticks and toss thoroughly until each piece is well coated. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  4. Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the drumsticks in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap to allow proper air circulation and even cooking.
  5. Initial Air Frying: Cook the drumsticks at 375°F (190°C) for 22 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they become golden brown and cooked all the way through.
  6. Coat with BBQ Sauce: Transfer the cooked drumsticks to a large bowl and toss them well with ½ cup of BBQ sauce for a rich, sweet, and tangy flavor.
  7. Caramelize Sauce: Return the sauced drumsticks to the air fryer and cook at 400°F (204°C) for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to caramelize the BBQ sauce, enhancing its texture and taste.
  8. Serve: Once caramelized, the drumsticks are ready to be served hot and enjoyed immediately.

Notes

  • Marinating longer (up to 2 hours) can enhance the flavor even more.
  • Ensure the drumsticks are arranged in a single layer to avoid uneven cooking.
  • If your air fryer is small, cook in batches to maintain space for hot air circulation.
  • Use your favorite BBQ sauce for a personalized flavor twist.
  • Check internal temperature to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.