Air fryer BBQ chicken drumsticks offer a juicy, tender, and flavorful alternative to traditional oven-baked or grilled versions. This method produces crispy skin and perfectly cooked meat in a fraction of the time, making it a weeknight favorite. Forget messy grills and long oven preheating times – your air fryer is about to become your new best friend.
What Makes Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks So Good?
The beauty of air frying lies in its ability to circulate hot air around the food, resulting in even cooking and a satisfyingly crispy exterior. For chicken drumsticks, this means perfectly browned skin without the need for excessive oil. The high heat also helps to render the fat, creating juicy and tender meat inside. Combining this with your favorite BBQ sauce results in a truly irresistible dish.
How to Make the Best Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
This recipe is straightforward and adaptable to your taste preferences. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 5 minutes.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps achieve crispy skin.
- Season the chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken drumsticks in the mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Air fry: Arrange the seasoned drumsticks in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Air fry for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Add BBQ sauce: During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the drumsticks generously with your favorite BBQ sauce. This allows the sauce to caramelize and create a delicious glaze.
- Serve: Once cooked through, remove the drumsticks from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
How Long Do Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Take to Cook?
The cooking time for air fryer BBQ chicken drumsticks depends on the size of the drumsticks and your air fryer model. Generally, it takes around 20-25 minutes at 380°F (195°C), but always use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Flipping halfway through cooking ensures even browning and crisping.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Drumsticks in the Air Fryer?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken drumsticks, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Add about 5-7 minutes to the cooking time, and ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It's always best to let frozen chicken thaw slightly before cooking for the best results.
What Temperature Should Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks Be Cooked To?
The USDA recommends cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken drumsticks have reached this temperature for food safety. Don't rely solely on visual cues, as the outside might appear cooked before the inside is fully safe to eat.
Tips for Extra Crispy Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
For extra crispy skin, try these tips:
- Pat the chicken dry: Thoroughly patting the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning removes excess moisture, leading to crispier skin.
- Don't overcrowd the basket: Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation, resulting in steaming instead of crisping. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a little extra oil: A slight increase in oil can help achieve extra browning and crispiness.
- Broil (if your air fryer has this setting): Broiling for the last minute or two can add extra crispiness.
With these simple tips and tricks, you're guaranteed to create mouth-watering air fryer BBQ chicken drumsticks that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
