Craving juicy, flavorful chicken without the guilt? These Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are a game-changer for Healthy BBQ Chicken Recipes, offering tender meat and crispy skin with minimal effort. You’ll love how easy it is to achieve that perfect BBQ taste right in your air fryer.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Drumsticks: Opt for skin-on for crispiness; remove skin if you prefer.
- BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite low-sugar or homemade BBQ sauce to keep it a Healthy BBQ Chicken Recipe.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky depth; regular paprika works too.
- Garlic Powder: Essential for flavor; fresh minced garlic can be used.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup low-sugar BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Cooking spray (optional, for air fryer basket)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 280-320 (depending on BBQ sauce and drumstick size)
- Tools Needed: Air fryer, large bowl, tongs
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat your chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and encourages crispy skin. Place them in a large bowl.
2. Season the Drumsticks
Sprinkle the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the drumsticks. Toss them well to ensure each drumstick is thoroughly coated with the delicious seasoning.
3. Coat with BBQ Sauce
Pour the low-sugar BBQ sauce over the seasoned drumsticks. Use tongs to coat each piece generously. Ensure they are fully covered for that classic BBQ flavor.
4. Preheat and Arrange
Lightly spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray if desired. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook in batches if necessary.
5. Air Fry to Perfection
Air fry for 25-30 minutes, flipping the drumsticks halfway through. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and caramelized. This makes for a perfect Healthy BBQ Chicken Recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to your BBQ sauce.
- Herby Touch: Mix in a teaspoon of dried Italian herbs with the seasonings.
- Lemon Garlic: Before applying BBQ sauce, rub drumsticks with lemon juice and extra garlic powder.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through, to maintain crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you use frozen drumsticks for this recipe?
It’s best to thaw frozen drumsticks completely before seasoning and air frying for even cooking.
How do you know when the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should register 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
Can you use a different cut of chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or wings, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Why are my drumsticks not crispy?
Ensure you don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, and pat the drumsticks dry before seasoning.
Is this recipe truly healthy?
Yes, by using an air fryer and low-sugar BBQ sauce, this is a fantastic option for Healthy BBQ Chicken Recipes.
Can you make these ahead of time?
You can season and coat the drumsticks with BBQ sauce up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
