Ingredients
Method
- Pat the chicken drumsticks completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for crispy skin, so don't rush it.
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the drumsticks and rub it in with your hands to coat evenly. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken and rub it in thoroughly, making sure to coat all sides.
- Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for 3 minutes.
- Place the drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they're not touching. You may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer size.
- Cook at 360°F for 12 minutes, then flip the drumsticks using tongs.
- Continue cooking for another 8 minutes, then increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 3-5 more minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the meat. If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and prevents them from running out when you bite in.
Notes
For best results, don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. The drumsticks need space for air to circulate properly. If your drumsticks are particularly large, you may need to add 2-3 minutes to the cooking time. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to crisp up the skin again.