Air Fryer Spicy Chicken Drumsticks
Prep time: 10 minutes (+ 30 minutes to marinate)
Cook time: 22–25 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 lb / 900 g)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Marinade
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons Kashmiri chili powder (for color)
- 1 teaspoon hot chili powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 teaspoons coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or mixed herbs (optional)
Optional
- 4–6 whole green chilies
- Fresh cilantro
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
1. Prepare the chicken
- Pat the drumsticks dry.
- Make 2–3 shallow slits on each drumstick so the marinade penetrates.
2. Marinate
Mix together:
- Yogurt
- Ginger-garlic paste
- All spices
- Salt
- Oil
- Lemon juice
Coat the chicken well.
Cover and refrigerate for:
- 30 minutes (minimum)
- 2–8 hours (best)
3. Preheat
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
4. Cook
Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer.
Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 12 minutes.
Turn the chicken over.
Add the whole green chilies (if using).
Cook another 10–13 minutes, or until:
- Internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- The skin is browned and slightly charred.
5. Optional crisp finish
Increase the temperature to 400°F (205°C) for 2–3 minutes for extra crispy edges.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Mint yogurt chutney
- Garlic sauce
- Lemon wedges
- Naan, rice, or roasted vegetables
Tips
- Yogurt helps keep the chicken juicy while creating a flavorful crust.
- For an even deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.
- Brush the drumsticks lightly with oil before the final few minutes of cooking to enhance browning.
