Easy Air Fryer Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

These Easy Air Fryer Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a sticky-sweet, garlicky sauce. They’re perfect for a quick dinner or game-day appetizer with big, bold flavor in every bite!

These Easy Air Fryer Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights.

Juicy chicken gets crisped up in the air fryer, then coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory Korean BBQ sauce that’s downright addictive.

Every bite has the perfect mix of crispy skin and tender meat, with that bold flavor kick you’d expect from takeout—but made right at home.,

If you love a great and easy Air Fryer Chicken Recipe, some of my favorite recipes are EASY AIR FRYER CHICKEN SANDWICH (CHICK-FIL-A COPYCAT), AIR FRYER HERB CRUSTED CHICKEN BREASTS, CRISPY AIR FRYER CHICKEN WINGS, and AIR FRYER PERUVIAN CHICKEN DRUMSTICKS.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Crispy Perfection: The air fryer gives these drumsticks a golden, crispy exterior without all the greasy mess of deep frying.
• Bold Korean BBQ Flavor: Sweet, savory, and just a little spicy—this sauce is pure magic and coats every bite.
• Easy Weeknight Dinner: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this recipe perfect for busy nights.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters can’t resist these sticky, flavorful drumsticks.
• Better Than Takeout: You’ll get all that crave-worthy restaurant flavor for a fraction of the cost—right from your own kitchen.

Ingredients Needed

• Chicken Drumsticks or Legs: Juicy, tender base for flavorful Korean BBQ.
• Soy Sauce: Adds deep, salty umami flavor to the marinade.
• Dark Brown Sugar: Gives a rich sweetness and caramelized glaze.
• Minced Garlic: Brings bold, savory depth to the sauce.
• Rice Wine Vinegar: Adds a tangy kick to balance the sweetness.
• Sesame Oil: Provides nutty aroma and authentic Korean flavor.
• Ground Ginger: Adds warm spice and subtle heat to the mix.

How To Make Easy Air Fryer Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Step One: Start by placing the chicken drumsticks in a large mixing bowl. Then pour in the soy sauce, dark brown sugar, minced garlic, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, and ground ginger, mix well. Marinade overnight or at least 3 hours.

Step Two: Place the chicken drumsticks or legs onto the air fryer basket or air fryer tray.

Step Three: Set the air fryer temperature to 400 degrees F and set cook time for 15 minutes, then flip them and cook for another 7 to 10 minutes. As soon as they are cooked (check with a meat thermometer), remove them.

Easy Air Fryer Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe Tips

• Marinate Longer for Maximum Flavor: Let the chicken soak in the Korean BBQ marinade overnight or at least 3–4 hours to fully absorb the sweet and savory flavors.
• Pat Dry Before Air Frying: Removing excess marinade helps the drumsticks crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Arrange drumsticks in a single layer for even cooking; cook in batches if needed.
• Flip Halfway: Turning the drumsticks halfway through ensures all sides get that perfect golden crisp.
• Optional Garnishes: Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving for added texture and flavor.

What To Serve With Korean Drumsticks Air Fryer Recipe

Serve with a large garden salad or on a bed of rice. You can serve it as an appetizer or as a primary protein in the meal.

Some great Air Fryer Side Dishes to pair them with are:

• AIR FRYER HASSELBACK BACON AND BLEU CHEESE POTATOES
• AIR FRYER PARMESAN CRUSTED POTATOES
• THE BEST AIR FRYER ROASTED POTATOES
• AIR FRYER ROASTED BAKED POTATOES WITH SOUR CREAM AND CHIVES
• AIR FRYER HOBO ROASTED POTATOES WITH ONIONS AND GARLIC

Easy Air Fryer Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe Faqs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks? Yes! Chicken thighs work well and cook a bit faster. Adjust air fryer time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked.

How long should I marinate the chicken? For best results, marinate overnight or at least 3–4 hours. Longer marinating gives the chicken maximum flavor.

Can I make this recipe spicy? Absolutely! Add chili flakes, gochujang, or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.

How do I know when the drumsticks are done? Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.

Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer? Yes! Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and cooked through.

Can I freeze these drumsticks? Yes. Freeze cooked drumsticks in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer or oven until warmed through.

Storing Instructions

• Refrigerating: Store cooked drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness.
• Freezing: Place fully cooled drumsticks in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the air fryer or oven.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes until warmed through, or in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes to restore crispiness.

More Easy Air Fryer Chicken Leg Recipes

Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Legs

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Legs

Golden Corral Fried Chicken Recipe

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