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Lamb Family Estate

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

Juicy chicken drumsticks coated in a smoky, garlicky seasoning paste and air fried until the outside is crispy and deeply seasoned. An easy, no-fuss dinner with just a handful of pantry staples.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 5
Course: Dinner
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • - 10 chicken drumsticks
  • - 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • - 1 tablespoon avocado oil
  • - 1 tablespoon minced garlic
Seasoning
  • - 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • - 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • - 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • - 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • - 1 teaspoon salt
  • - 1 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Instant-Read Thermometer

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken. Add the chicken drumsticks to a large bowl. Add the tomato paste, avocado oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the drumsticks are evenly and thoroughly coated.
  2. Air fry. Arrange the drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving a little room around each one for the air to circulate.
  3. Cook at 400°F for 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 180°F at the thickest part of the drumstick.
  4. Serve. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Why 180°F? Chicken is safe to eat once it reaches 165°F, but drumsticks are dark meat and benefit from cooking longer. I prefer taking them to around 180°F for more tender meat and a better texture.
Air fryer timing: Air fryers vary, and larger drumsticks may need additional cooking time. Always use the internal temperature rather than the clock to determine when they're done.