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Air Fryer Keto Chicken Drumsticks

Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 chicken drumsticks about 2 to 2.5 pounds / 900g–1.1kg total
  • 1.5 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
  • 1.5 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp dried thyme or oregano
  • 1 tsp aluminum-free baking powder
  • 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Meat thermometer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes — hot air triggers faster browning and crispier skin.
  2. Pat the drumsticks completely dry with paper towels, paying special attention to skin folds — moisture prevents crisping.
  3. Mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, thyme, baking powder, and cayenne in a small bowl.
  4. Coat the drumsticks evenly with oil, then shower them with the spice mixture until fully covered.
  5. Arrange in a single layer in the basket without overlapping — crowding steams the chicken instead of crisping it.
  6. Air fry for 12 minutes, then flip and continue for 10–13 more minutes until the skin is deep golden and crispy.
  7. Check the thickest part with a meat thermometer — dark meat requires 175–185°F for tender, juicy results.
  8. Rest for 3–5 minutes before serving — the skin continues to crisp as the meat relaxes and moisture retreats.

Notes

Per drumstick (approximate): 200 calories, 0g net carbs, 14g fat, 18g protein. Dark meat collagen requires higher final temperature (175–185°F) than white meat (165°F) to render into gelatin and achieve tenderness. Always use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness.