Air fryer Cajun chicken drumsticks

Air fryer Cajun Chicken drumsticks Recipe

If you are looking for a quick and easy dinner recipe that’s packed full of flavor then you’ll love these delicious air fryer Cajun chicken drumsticks.

Seasoned to perfection with a blend of spices that are easily accessible, if you don’t already have in your pantry. This air fryer chicken comes out juicy, tender and so delicious with minimal effort.

Going by these air fryer marinated chicken drumsticks, crispy air fryer chicken drumsticks, butterflied chicken drumsticks and this teriyaki chicken legs, you’ll know drumsticks are some of our favs!

Why this recipe is so good!

• Flavorful: The Cajun spice blend takes this chicken recipe to a whole new level of deliciousness. If you’re in search of a tasty spicy chicken drumsticks recipe, look no further than this I promise!
• Quick and easy to make: How does few ingredients and minimal prep sound? These take way less time to make in the air fryer than in the oven. It’s foolproof and beginner friendly.
• Great for meal prep: Works perfectly for meal prep or a quick and easy weeknight dinner ideas
• Family friendly and picky eater approved: this is an easy chicken recipe with no breading that’s low carb, versatile and can be served with a variety of sides.

Ingredients (with Substitutions)

• Chicken drumsticks
• Paprika
• salt
• onion powder
• garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• dried thyme
• black pepper
• white pepper
• cayenne pepper

How long to cook Cajun Chicken drumsticks in air fryer

It usually takes about 25 minutes to cook at a temperature of 400°F to cook Cajun chicken drumsticks in the air fryer. However, the exact cooking time can vary depending on the size of the chicken legs, the specific air fryer being used and if you preheat the air fryer or not.

To ensure that the chicken is fully cooked, it's important to use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F. Don’t be afraid to add more time as needed.

You should also flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and crispiness on both sides.

How to make Cajun chicken drumsticks in air fryer

This is an overview of the recipe with step by step photos. Scroll down to the end of this post for a printable recipe card with the amount of ingredients and full recipe instructions.

• Mix the spices, herbs and oil together in a bowl then add chicken drumsticks to Cajun seasoning marinade. Toss to coat ensuring all sides are covered.
• You can cook immediately or cover with cling film and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 mins.
• Place the chicken drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

• Air fry the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, flipping the drumsticks halfway through the cooking time, until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F and the outside is crispy and browned.
• Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it or a few minutes before serving.

What to serve with air fried Cajun chicken drumsticks

This is a chicken recipe that can be served with a variety of sides including this sweet potato salad and this nice refreshing wine slushie recipe. Some of our other favorites include

• Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or these air fryer frozen Brussels sprouts and air fryer Brussel sprouts and bacon
• Rice or quinoa
• Corn on the cob
• Air fryer Baked sweet potatoes or air fryer sweet potato fries
• Salads, coleslaw or these air fryer canned green beans or air fryer bacon wrapped green beans
• Cornbread or biscuits
• Mac and cheese

How to store and reheat

To store these air fried chicken legs, allow them to cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating chicken in the air fryer is the best in my opinion. Place the chicken in the air fryer and air fry at 360°F 5 to 8 mins or until heated through.

It's important to note that reheating the chicken too long or at too high a temperature can dry it out, so be sure to monitor the chicken closely during the reheating process to avoid overcooking.

Air frying Tips

• Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with a paper towel before seasoning them to ensure the seasoning sticks.
• You can marinate for at least 30 mins if you have the time.
• No need to preheat the air fryer, however if you are cooking in batches, subsequent batches will likely cook faster so keep an eye on it.
• Don’t like the heat, tone it down by reducing the cayenne pepper or leave it out completely.
• Do not overcrowd the basket or tray. Make sure the drumsticks are not touching in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
• If using larger drumsticks, adjust the cooking time accordingly because it may take longer than stated in the recipe. Let the digital meat thermometer guide you. The internal temp should be at least 165°F (74°C)
• Some store bought Cajun seasoning have more salt. Bear that in mind when seasoning the chicken with those. You could also experiment with different Cajun seasoning blends to find your favorite.

FAQs

Here you’ll find answers to common questions about this recipe. If your question isn’t answered, please leave us a comment below and we’ll gladly answer them.