Keto Southern Air Fryer Drumsticks

These Keto Southern Air Fryer Drumsticks deliver crispy, flavorful chicken without the carbs or the deep frying! Lightly seasoned with classic Southern spices and air-fried to golden perfection, they offer a juicy inside with a crunchy, low-carb coating. Perfect for a quick dinner, meal prep, or satisfying comfort food craving—all while keeping it keto-friendly and easy!

If you’re craving crispy, flavorful fried chicken without the carbs, these Keto Southern Air Fryer Drumsticks are the perfect solution!

Lightly coated in a savory blend of Southern spices and cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer, these drumsticks are juicy on the inside and wonderfully crispy on the outside—all without any heavy breading.

They’re quick, easy, and ideal for a family-friendly low-carb meal that doesn’t skimp on comfort or flavor!

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Crispy Without the Carbs – Get that classic Southern crunch with a low-carb coating that fits your keto lifestyle.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients and minimal prep.
• Juicy and Flavorful – Perfectly seasoned with bold Southern spices and cooked to tender perfection.
• Healthy Comfort Food – Satisfy your fried chicken cravings without the guilt of deep frying.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Great for making ahead and enjoying for quick lunches or dinners all week!

Ingredients Needed

• Chicken: You can use regular chicken drumsticks or chicken legs. The skin on or off
• Pork Rinds: User regular or seasoned crushed pork rinds
• Flour: Use coconut flour or almond flour
• Egg: Use large room temperature eggs
• Seasonings and Spices: Paprika, Ground Ginger, Garlic Powder, Kosher Salt, Black Pepper, Dried Oregano, Mustard Powder

How To Make Keto Southern Air Fryer Drumsticks

Step One: Start by preheating the air fryer temperature to 350 degrees F; brush the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with olive oil. Let preheat for 3-5 minutes.

Step Two: In a large bowl, crack the eggs, and use a fork to whisk. In another large bowl, or shallow bowl, make the pork rind mixture: Add the pork rinds, almond flour, and seasoning, and mix well.

Step Three: Dry the chicken legs off with a paper towel, dip the chicken legs into the eggs, then into the almond mixture, and use your hands to have the pork rind mixture adhere to the chicken legs. Place the coated chicken legs into the air fryer in a single layer. Set the cook time for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway during the cooking process.

Note: For best results, spray the chicken leg batter with avocado oil or cooking spray, which will help you get the same flavor as deep frying. Remove when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F using a meat thermometer.

Keto Southern Air Fryer Drumsticks Recipe Tips

• Pat the chicken dry before coating to help the egg wash and pork rind mixture stick better.
• Crush the pork rinds finely for a more even, crispier coating.
• Season the coating well to enhance that classic Southern flavor—don’t skimp on the spices!
• Arrange drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket so the hot air circulates and crisps them evenly.
• Flip halfway through cooking to get a perfectly crispy, golden crust on all sides.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe and juicy chicken.
• Let them rest for a few minutes after air frying to lock in the juices and keep the coating crisp.

Storing

• Storing: Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Let them cool completely before sealing to prevent sogginess.

• Freezing: Freeze the cooled drumsticks on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

• Reheating: Reheat the drumsticks in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until hot and crispy again. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crispy coating.

What To Serve With Keto Southern Air Fryer Drumsticks

Pair your Keto Southern Air Fryer Drumsticks with a variety of delicious low-carb sides to complete your meal! Fresh options like a crisp garden salad, roasted asparagus, or garlic butter green beans keep it light and vibrant.

For something heartier, try Air Fryer Fried Cauliflower Rice, creamy mashed cauliflower, or air fryer zucchini fries. You can also add classic Southern-inspired sides like keto-friendly coleslaw or cheesy broccoli casserole for a comforting, satisfying plate that stays low in carbs and full of flavor!

Keto Southern Air Fryer Drumsticks Recipe Faqs

Can I use chicken thighs or wings instead of drumsticks? Yes! You can easily swap in chicken thighs or wings; just adjust the cooking time slightly based on the size of the pieces.

How do I keep the pork rind coating from falling off? Make sure the drumsticks are patted dry before coating, and press the pork rind mixture firmly onto the chicken to help it stick.

Do I need to flip the drumsticks while cooking? Yes, flipping halfway through ensures they cook evenly and get crispy all over.

Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare and coat the drumsticks, then refrigerate them until ready to air fry.

How do I know when the drumsticks are fully cooked? Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy chicken.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
• Air Fryer Green Beans
• KETO AIR FRYER GARLIC PARMESAN WINGS
• Air Fryer Gluten-Free Fries
• Air Fryer Apple Cranberry Crisp

Don’t Forget To Pin!

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