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Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are juicy, tender, and coated in smoky barbecue sauce. Cooked to perfection in the air fryer, they’re flavorful with crispy skin and a sticky glaze. A quick and easy main dish the whole family will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 chicken drumsticks
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon oregano

Method
 

  1. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 5 minutes.
  2. Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
  3. In a bowl, coat drumsticks with oil, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and oregano.
  4. Arrange drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  5. Cook for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temp reaches 165°F.
  6. Remove and brush with BBQ sauce.
  7. Return to air fryer for 2 minutes to caramelize glaze.

Notes

  • Adjust cooking time for larger drumsticks or different cuts.
  • Check with a meat thermometer for safe doneness.
  • Customize with your favorite BBQ sauce flavor profile.
  • For toddlers: Serve shredded chicken instead of full drumsticks to reduce choking risk.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer.