Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Drumsticks
Description
Crispy, juicy air fryer Cajun chicken drumsticks with a bold lemon-Cajun marinade, ready in about 25 minutes of cook time. Use the marinade or a quick dry rub.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken drumsticks, about 4, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, skip for the dry rub
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, adjust to taste
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon salt, depending on how salty your Cajun blend is
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels.
- In a large bowl, whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Add the drumsticks and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 12 hours. For the dry rub, skip the lemon juice and cook right away.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Blot excess marinade from the skin. Lightly spray the basket and arrange the drumsticks in a single layer, cooking in batches if needed.
- Air fry for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway, until the thickest part reads at least 165°F. For the most tender meat, cook to 175 to 185°F.
- Optional: increase to 400°F for the last 2 to 3 minutes for extra-crispy skin.
- Rest for 5 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges.
Equipment
- Instant-read meat thermometer
- Perforated parchment liners (optional)
Notes
- Cook times vary by drumstick size and air fryer model. See the size chart above.
- To double the recipe, double the marinade and cook in batches so the drumsticks aren't crowded.
- Leftovers keep 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 6 to 8 minutes.
Nutrition
Serving: 1ServingCalories: 485kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 30gFat: 38gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 20gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 116mgSodium: 696mgPotassium: 499mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 3952IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 38mgIron: 3mg