Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Drumsticks

Craving crispy, juicy drumsticks but don’t want the wait? Air fryer frozen chicken drumsticks are the answer—tender on the inside, golden and crisp on the outside, all with minimal prep time!

Cooking frozen chicken drumsticks in the air fryer is an absolute game-changer! With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy perfectly crispy, juicy drumsticks in less time than it would take to preheat your oven.

The air fryer locks in moisture while giving the skin a golden, crispy texture that rivals deep-frying. Plus, it’s incredibly easy, making it a great go-to meal for busy nights or when you forget to thaw chicken. Whether you like them simple with seasoning or sauced up with BBQ, this recipe is quick, delicious, and convenient!

Why You Will Love Cooking Frozen Chicken Drumsticks In Air Fryer

• Quick cooking time, no need to defrost first.
• Crispy skin and juicy meat every time.
• Easy cleanup with minimal mess or oil.
• Healthy alternative to deep frying with less oil.
• Perfectly cooked from frozen in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile for seasoning or adding your favorite sauces.
• Convenient for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.

If you love dinner recipes, try my recipe for Copycat Steak ‘n Shake Chili, Air Fryer Peanut Butter Banana Sandwich, or Air Fryer Patty Melt.

What You’ll Need To Cook Frozen Chicken Drumsticks In Air Fryer

• Frozen chicken drumsticks: Convenient and easy to cook from frozen.
• Olive oil: Helps crisp up skin and enhances flavor.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing chicken’s taste.
• Black pepper: Adds mild heat and flavor depth.
• Garlic powder: Provides savory aroma and rich taste.
• Onion powder: Adds sweetness and extra flavor complexity.
• Paprika: Offers smoky flavor and vibrant color.

How to Cook Frozen Chicken Drumsticks In Air Fryer

Step One: Set your air fryer to 380 degrees F (190°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes. While the air fryer is preheating, lightly spray or brush the frozen chicken drumsticks with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, or any seasoning of your choice.

Step Two: Place the frozen drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Air fry the chicken drumsticks at 380°F (190°C) set cook time for 25-30 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispiness.

Step Three: Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), it’s ready! If necessary, cook a few more minutes for extra crispiness. Let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes, then serve hot with your favorite sides.

Frozen Drumsticks In Air Fryer Recipe Tips

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer before adding the chicken to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Place the drumsticks in a single layer without overcrowding them to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy.
• Use Olive Oil: Lightly spray or brush the drumsticks with olive oil to help the seasonings stick and create a crispy exterior.
• Flip Halfway: Flip the drumsticks halfway through the cooking time for even crisping on both sides.
• Check Internal Temperature: Ensure the internal temperature of the drumsticks reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety and the best texture.
• Season to Taste: Customize your seasoning blend for extra flavor! Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika work great, but you can experiment with your favorite spices.
• Rest After Cooking: Let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in juiciness before serving.

Storing

Store leftover Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to crisp them up again.

What To Serve With Frozen Chicken Drumsticks In Air Fryer

Frozen chicken drumsticks cooked in the air fryer are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes. For a complete meal, serve them with roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy option.

You can also add mashed potatoes or creamy mac and cheese for a comforting side. A fresh salad or coleslaw offers a nice contrast with the crispy chicken, while rice or couscous can soak up any delicious juices. Don’t forget your favorite dipping sauces like BBQ, ranch, or honey mustard to add an extra layer of flavor!

Frozen Drumsticks In Air Fryer Recipe Faqs

Can I cook frozen chicken drumsticks without thawing them? Yes, you can cook frozen chicken drumsticks directly from frozen in the air fryer. There’s no need to thaw them first.

How long do frozen chicken drumsticks take to cook in the air fryer? Frozen chicken drumsticks typically take 25-30 minutes to cook in the air fryer at 380°F (190°C). Be sure to flip them halfway for even crispiness.

Do I need to add oil to the drumsticks? It’s a good idea to lightly spray or brush the frozen drumsticks with olive oil before seasoning. This helps achieve a crispier texture.

Can I use any seasoning for the drumsticks? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasonings with your favorites, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or a pre-made seasoning blend.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? To ensure the drumsticks are cooked through, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I cook multiple drumsticks at once? Yes, but be careful not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Ensure the drumsticks are in a single layer for even cooking. If needed, cook in batches.

Can I cook frozen chicken drumsticks with skin-on? Yes, frozen drumsticks with skin-on work great in the air fryer. The skin crisps up beautifully while the meat remains juicy.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• Copycat Steak ‘n Shake Chili
• Copycat Wingstop Atomic Sauce Recipe
• Wingstop Ranch Recipe (Copycat)
• Wingstop Louisiana Rub Recipe (Copycat)
• Air Fryer Wingstop Cajun Fried Corn
• How to Make Wingstop Fries
• Maggianos Chicken Piccata

Don’t Forget To Pin!

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