Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Drumsticks
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Diet: Low-Carb, Keto-Friendly
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning (salt-free preferred)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust if your lemon pepper contains salt)
- 1 fresh lemon, cut into wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. While it heats, use paper towels to pat the chicken drumsticks thoroughly dry. Removing excess moisture is the secret to getting truly crispy skin.
- In a large mixing bowl, place the dried drumsticks and drizzle them with olive oil. Toss well to coat. Sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt over the chicken. Use your hands or tongs to ensure each drumstick is evenly coated with the spice mixture.
- Place the seasoned drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they are not touching or overlapping too much; this allows the hot air to circulate freely around each piece for even browning.
- Cook the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. At the halfway mark (around 12 minutes), open the basket and flip the drumsticks using tongs. This ensures both sides get that beautiful golden-brown color.
- Check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the drumstick using a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with parsley before serving.