Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for BBQ chicken drumsticks is a game changer. The air fryer cooks the chicken perfectly, giving it a crispy skin while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. The homemade BBQ sauce adds layers of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors, making each bite irresistible. It’s a hands-off recipe that takes very little prep time, and in less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a plate of delicious BBQ chicken ready to serve!

Ingredients

• ¾ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 2-3 lbs chicken drumsticks (about 6-8 large drumsticks)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, ground mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until fully combined. This is your homemade BBQ sauce.
2. Season the chicken drumsticks with salt and pepper on all sides.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
4. Lightly coat the chicken drumsticks with a thin layer of cooking spray or brush with a small amount of oil to ensure crispiness.
5. Place the drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure the drumsticks are not overcrowded, so they cook evenly.
6. Air fry the drumsticks at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispiness.
7. While the chicken is cooking, warm up some of the BBQ sauce in a small saucepan over low heat.
8. Once the chicken drumsticks are done, remove them from the air fryer and brush them with the warm BBQ sauce on all sides.
9. Return the sauced drumsticks to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to let the sauce set and become sticky.
10. Serve immediately, and enjoy your perfectly cooked BBQ chicken drumsticks!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 25-30 minutes
• Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy BBQ Sauce: Add a bit of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes to the BBQ sauce if you like a spicy kick.
• Honey Mustard Sauce: Swap out the BBQ sauce for a tangy honey mustard sauce made with Dijon mustard and honey for a different flavor profile.
• Other Cuts of Chicken: You can also make this recipe with chicken thighs, wings, or breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly since the thickness of the meat will vary.
• Grilled Option: If you prefer grilling, you can finish the drumsticks on the grill after air frying to add a smoky char to the skin.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover BBQ drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the drumsticks in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken drumsticks. Just make sure to increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes and check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I make the BBQ sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the BBQ sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, and reheat it before using.

Can I skip the BBQ sauce and season the chicken differently?

Yes, you can skip the BBQ sauce and simply season the chicken with your favorite dry rub or seasoning blend for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to check if the chicken is done is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.

Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the drumsticks in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through. For a crispy exterior, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce instead of making my own?

Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought BBQ sauce if you’re short on time. Just brush it onto the drumsticks during the last few minutes of cooking.

How can I make the chicken extra crispy?

To get even crispier chicken, lightly coat the drumsticks with a thin layer of oil or cooking spray before air frying. Also, make sure not to overcrowd the basket.

What is the best way to serve BBQ drumsticks?

BBQ chicken drumsticks pair well with classic sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, baked beans, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use chicken legs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, chicken legs and drumsticks are essentially the same cut of meat, so feel free to substitute chicken legs for drumsticks in this recipe.

Can I make this recipe with other proteins?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken thighs, wings . Just adjust the cooking time depending on the cut of meat.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a savory snack, this recipe delivers crispy, juicy chicken with a perfect BBQ sauce. Plus, the air fryer makes the process fast and simple, giving you more time to enjoy your meal. Try it out for your next meal, and you’ll be hooked on this easy, flavorful dish!

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