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Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

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Cook Time 23 minutes
Pre-heat 5 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 chicken drumsticks about 2 to 2.5 pounds, patted dry
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or sweet paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne optional for heat
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup BBQ sauce plus more for serving
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar optional, to brighten the sauce

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps crisp the skin.
  • Dry the drumsticks: Pat them well with paper towels. Dry skin equals crisp skin.
  • Make the spice rub: In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder or cayenne if using.
  • Season and oil: Toss drumsticks with olive oil, then sprinkle the spice rub all over. Coat every side.
  • Arrange in the basket: Place drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer, leaving a little space between each. Work in batches if needed.
  • Air fry, round one: Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 10 minutes. Flip the drumsticks.
  • Air fry, round two: Cook another 8–10 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F at the thickest part and the skin looks crisp.
  • Sauce and caramelize: Stir the BBQ sauce with apple cider vinegar if you like it a bit tangy. Brush a generous layer over the drumsticks. Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 2–3 minutes to set and lightly caramelize the sauce.
  • Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes. Brush with a little more warm BBQ sauce if you want extra sticky goodness.