The best Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks are done in just 20 minutes after marinating in olive oil, lime juice and spices. They come out tender and perfectly cooked, with a slightly crispy exterior. You'll never make drumsticks any other way again!
½ teaspoon paprika powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Place the drumsticks in a plastic bag and season with the mixed spices, lime juice and olive oil. Close the bag and massage the drumsticks through it to spread the marinade evenly. Place in the fridge for at least 15 minutes.
4 drumsticks, ½ lime, 1 tablespoon olive oil
Air Fryer Instructions
Preheat the air fryer by running it for 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
Place the drumsticks in one layer in the air fryer basket. Fry for 18 minutes at 400°F (200°C), turning once after 10 minutes.
Bring out the drumsticks and make sure they're done - if using a thermometer they should have reached 179°F (82°C) near the bone.
Oven Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425°F (225°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Spread out the drumsticks on the parchment paper and bake in the middle of the oven for 40-50 minutes, until the inner temperature near the bone has reached 179°F (82°C). Turn them halfway.
Video
Notes
Ingredient notes & substitutions
Olive oil can be switched for a neutral vegetable oil, or skipped
If you skip the oil, instead mix the lime with the spices and then rub the drumsticks with this. I then recommend spraying or brushing the air fryer basket with just tiny bit of oil before frying.
Spices - adjust amounts to suit your taste. The suggested amounts make it a little bit spicy, but not a lot.
Tips & tricks
Let the drumsticks marinade longer for even more taste
Skip the marinading if you're in a hurry - just toss the drumsticks in the marinade and then place them straight in the air fryer
Use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken is done
Keep drumsticks in one layer for best results- if you increase the servings you may need to cook in multiple batches
Preheat your air fryer for best results - see instructions in recipe card
Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Reheat leftovers in the microwave for 1 minute, or for 3-5 minutes in the air fryer or oven
Nutritional information assumes half the olive oil i consumed.