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Air Fryer Sumac Rub Drumsticks - Crispy, Tangy, and Ready Fast

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2–2.5 lbs), patted dry
  • 1.5 tablespoons ground sumac
  • 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt (use 1 teaspoon if using fine table salt)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1–1.5 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
  • Plain yogurt or garlic yogurt sauce (optional, for dipping)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. This helps the skin start crisping right away.
  2. Mix the rub: In a small bowl, combine sumac, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, black pepper, and cayenne if using.
  3. Prep the chicken: Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. Dry skin equals crisp skin.
  4. Coat with oil: Drizzle the drumsticks with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
  5. Season generously: Sprinkle the spice blend over the chicken and rub it in to coat every side.
  6. Arrange in the basket: Place drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Leave a little space between them so air can circulate.
  7. Cook: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes. Flip the drumsticks and cook another 10–12 minutes, until the skin is crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Rest briefly: Let the chicken rest for 3 minutes to keep the juices in.
  9. Serve: Squeeze over lemon if you like and serve with yogurt sauce, a chopped herb salad, or warm pita.