Chicken drumsticks in aromatic marinade
About this recipe
These air fryer chicken drumsticks use a yogurt marinade for flavor and browning without deep frying. Hot air crisps the skin while keeping the meat juicy—quick active prep and a straightforward cook that fits weeknights.
Ingredient amounts update for the number of servings. Nutrition values are per serving.
Ingredients
Choose your preferred units for ingredients.
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp plain yogurt
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
Wash the drumsticks thoroughly and pat very dry with paper towels.
In a bowl, mix the marinade ingredients (without the drumsticks) into a smooth paste.
Add the drumsticks and toss until each piece is evenly coated.
Marinate for at least 30 minutes (ideally 2–12 hours in the fridge).
Arrange the drumsticks in the basket in a single layer.
Cook at 355°F for about 20 minutes.
Flip the drumsticks and cook for about 15 more minutes at 355°F.
Tips
- Do not overload the basket—keep a single layer with gaps. Cook in two batches if needed.
- Flip halfway through so both sides get even color and heat.
- If the skin browns too fast but the meat near the bone looks underdone, drop the temperature by 50°F and finish with a few extra minutes.
- Rest 2–3 minutes after cooking so juices settle.
- If you marinate for many hours, taste for salt after cooking before adding more.
Why make it in an air fryer
- Less added fat than shallow or deep frying in lots of oil.
- Faster to start than a full oven preheat for small batches.
- Crispy skin from strong hot-air circulation.
- Smaller basket than a sheet pan—often quicker to clean.
- Easy to peek and tweak time for your specific model.
Frequently asked questions
How long to cook chicken drumsticks in an air fryer?
At 355°F, about 20 minutes on one side and about 15 minutes after flipping is a common starting point. Thickness and model vary—check a few minutes early the first time.
What temperature for chicken drumsticks in an air fryer?
This recipe uses 355°F. If the skin chars too quickly, lower by 50°F and extend time slightly.
Do you need to flip chicken in an air fryer?
Yes—flipping halfway helps both sides brown evenly with circulating hot air.
How do you know the chicken is done?
A thermometer near the bone reading about 165°F is best. Without one, juices should run clear and meat should not look pink at the bone.
Can I make this without marinade?
Yes, but flavor will be milder and the meat can dry faster. Yogurt and spices help juiciness and taste.
Why are my drumsticks dry?
Often overcooking, too high heat, or a crowded basket. Use a single layer, watch the last minutes, and adjust time for your air fryer.
You can also try
- Spicy: swap some sweet paprika for hot paprika or a pinch of chili flakes.
- BBQ: add a spoon of BBQ sauce and a touch of honey; shorten marinating time and watch for burning.
- Extra garlic: double the garlic and add lemon zest to the marinade.
- Light breading: after marinating, coat in panko mixed with parmesan; shorten cook time and watch the crust.
Nutrition
Per serving
- Calories
- 405 kcal
- Fat
- 26.4 g
- Carbs
- 1.5 g
- Protein
- 36.6 g
