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- 8 chicken drumsticks - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) - 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)

30-Minute Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Discover a quick and delicious meal with this 30-Minute Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks recipe. Using an air fryer, you can whip up crispy, golden-brown drumsticks coated in rich BBQ sauce in just half an hour. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, showcasing the enjoyable balance of juicy chicken and tangy flavors. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a tasty dish that everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

10 chicken drumsticks

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for an extra kick)

1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice of store-bought or homemade)

Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Instructions
 

Prep the Chicken: Begin by patting the chicken drumsticks dry using paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy skin during cooking.

    Create the Seasoning Mix: In a small mixing bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you want that extra heat). Stir the mixture until it's evenly blended.

      Season the Drumsticks: Generously rub the seasoning mixture all over each chicken drumstick, ensuring they are fully coated. For an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the seasoned drumsticks in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour; however, this step can be skipped for a quicker meal.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Let it warm up for about 3 to 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.

          Arrange in Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the seasoned drumsticks in the basket in a single layer without overlapping to allow for even cooking.

            Air Fry the Chicken: Cook the drumsticks in the air fryer for approximately 25 minutes. Make sure to flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they brown and crisp up nicely on all sides.

              Glaze with BBQ Sauce: Once the initial cooking time is complete, use a brush to apply your favorite barbecue sauce over the drumsticks. Return them to the air fryer for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. This helps to caramelize the sauce, leaving the chicken with a delicious stickiness and rich flavor.

                Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to verify that the chicken drumsticks have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are safe to eat. This is a crucial step for optimal safety and flavor.

                  Serve and Enjoy: Once done, carefully remove the drumsticks from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve them hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping, and enjoy your tasty creation!

                    Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                      - Presentation Tips: Arrange the drumsticks on a serving platter garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Consider serving alongside coleslaw or corn on the cob for a complete meal experience!