Print

Spicy Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 2 reviews

Crispy and flavorful air fryer chicken drumsticks coated with a blend of smoky, spicy, and savory spices. Perfectly cooked in the air fryer for a juicy interior and a crispy exterior, these drumsticks are easy to prepare and great for a quick dinner or game day snack. Serve with your choice of ranch, blue cheese, Buffalo sauce, or barbecue sauce for an extra kick of flavor.

Ingredients

Spice Mix

  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp mustard powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp poultry seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Chicken

  • 6 chicken drumsticks
  • 1 Tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 tsp kosher salt

For Serving

  • Ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, Buffalo sauce, or barbecue sauce

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, whisk together the onion powder, mustard powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, poultry seasoning, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until combined.
  2. Season the Drumsticks: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry thoroughly using paper towels. Coat each drumstick evenly with vegetable oil, then sprinkle kosher salt over them. Rub the prepared spice mixture all over each drumstick to ensure full coverage and flavor.
  3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) if your model requires preheating. This helps to achieve a crispy exterior.
  4. Cook the Drumsticks: Arrange the drumsticks in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between each piece for even air circulation and cooking. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the drumsticks. Continue cooking for an additional 8 to 12 minutes until the drumsticks are a deep golden brown, crispy, and reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) as measured with an instant-read thermometer.
  5. Serve: Remove the drumsticks from the air fryer and serve hot with your choice of ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, Buffalo sauce, or barbecue sauce for dipping or drizzling.

Notes

  • Ensure drumsticks are patted dry for the crispiest skin.
  • Use an instant-read thermometer to verify the internal temperature is at least 165°F for safe consumption.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed for even cooking.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper amount if you prefer less heat.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.