Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Legs (Drumsticks)
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes.
- In a bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and evenly blended.
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with a paper towel, then brush them with the prepared barbecue sauce mixture, making sure to coat them evenly.
- Place the chicken drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each piece for proper air circulation.
- Cook the drumsticks in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken drumsticks with a meat thermometer. They should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken drumsticks from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Optionally, you can brush some additional barbecue sauce over the drumsticks for extra flavor and shine.
- Serve the air fryer BBQ chicken legs hot with your favorite side dishes, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables.
Notes:
- The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- You can marinate the chicken drumsticks in the barbecue sauce mixture for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator to enhance the flavor.
- Feel free to customize the seasonings and spices according to your preference. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or some herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra aroma.
- If you want your chicken drumsticks to have a crispier texture, you can spray or brush them with a little oil before placing them in the air fryer.
- Remember to preheat your air fryer before cooking to ensure even and consistent results.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific air fryer model.
- Be cautious when handling hot chicken drumsticks from the air fryer to avoid burns.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore the crispy texture.