✨ BBQ chicken recipe in air fryer ✨
This is one of the easiest things to cook especially when you don’t have time to think about dinner!
Ingredients:
-1.5 lbs chicken drumsticks
-1 tablespoon salt
-1 tablespoon pepper
-1 tablespoon onion powder
-1 tablespoon garlic powder
-1 tablespoon chili powder
-2 tablespoon all purpose flour
-1 tablespoon oil
Directions:
•Rinse off chicken and pat it dry
•In a bowl add the chicken drumsticks and add in all the seasonings. Once combined add in 1 tablespoon of oil to be sure all chicken and seasoning is incorporated
•Sprinkle flour on top and combine
•Place chicken on a foil lined tray and air fry for 20 mins flipping the chicken halfway through. Take the chicken out the fryer and coat with BBQ sauce and place it back in the fryer
•Broil or Bake again for 2 mins or until the BBQ sauce has glazed the chicken. Enjoy!
Using an air fryer to prepare BBQ chicken drumsticks is a game-changer for quick and delicious meals. The method combines seasoning with a light flour coating, which helps achieve a crispy texture without deep frying. The high heat setting of 425°F cooks the drumsticks thoroughly while locking in moisture, resulting in tender, juicy chicken. In my experience, patting the chicken dry before seasoning is key to ensuring the spices adhere well and that the coating crisps up in the air fryer. The spice blend here includes salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and chili powder, creating a balanced flavor profile that is savory with a subtle kick. Adding a small amount of oil helps evenly distribute the spices and encourages browning. After the initial 20 minutes of air frying—flipping halfway—coating the chicken with BBQ sauce before a brief 2-minute broil or bake step is essential to achieve that beautiful glaze. This step caramelizes the sauce, adds an irresistible smoky sweetness, and enhances the appearance of the dish. For best results, I recommend using foil-lined trays to simplify cleanup and prevent sticking. Also, keep an eye on the chicken during the last broil to avoid burning the sauce. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings when you want a flavorful protein without spending hours in the kitchen. Additionally, the drumsticks provide a good source of protein while being budget-friendly. Pair them with simple sides like coleslaw or roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal. Exploring different BBQ sauces—whether spicy, sweet, or tangy—can add variety to this foundational recipe and keep it exciting every time you make it.