How long should you cook chicken drumsticks in an air fryer?+
Most air fryer chicken drumsticks take around 20 to 25 minutes to cook at about 190 to 200°C (375 to 400°F). Flip them halfway so they brown and crisp evenly and check with a thermometer if you want extra confidence they’re done. You might need a few extra minutes if they’re larger or very cold.
What temperature do you air fry chicken drumsticks at?+
A good starting point is about 190°C (375°F) in the air fryer. This gives you crispy skin without burning the outside before the inside cooks; if your pieces are big or thick you can nudge the time up slightly.
How do you know when air fryer chicken drumsticks are cooked?+
You’ll know they’re ready when the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink at the bone. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the drumstick.
Can you marinate chicken drumsticks before air frying?+
Sure you can, marinating them ahead of time helps the flavour go deeper into the meat and can make the drumsticks even more juicy. Even 30 minutes helps but letting them sit for a few hours or overnight will give the best results.
How do you keep air fryer chicken drumsticks from drying out?+
Patting the skin dry first, using a little oil so the seasoning sticks, not overcooking them and not filling the basket too full all help keep the meat juicy. Watching the internal temperature and removing them as soon as they hit 165°F (74°C) also prevents drying.
Should you flip chicken drumsticks in the air fryer?+
Yep flipping halfway through cooking helps each side brown and crisp up evenly because air fryers circulate hot air from all directions. This avoids one side staying soft while the other gets dark.
Can you cook drumsticks from frozen in an air fryer?+
You can but frozen chicken needs more time. Add a few minutes and consider flipping more than once so they cook through and crisp evenly without burning on the outside. Many people thaw first for best texture.
