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To make Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Drumsticks, you need the following simple ingredients: - 8 chicken drumsticks - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 4 cloves garlic, minced - Zest and juice of 1 lemon - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon black pepper - Fresh parsley for garnish These ingredients are easy to find at most grocery stores. I love using fresh garlic and lemon because they add a bright flavor. The olive oil helps keep the chicken juicy and crisp. You can use dried thyme for a nice herbal note. Each spice plays a role in the overall taste, making these drumsticks a delight. Make sure your chicken is fresh for the best results. If you want, you can switch the parsley for another herb you enjoy. This recipe is flexible, allowing you to make it your own! To start, I combine the marinade ingredients in a large bowl. I use 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, the zest and juice of 1 lemon, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. It is important to mix these well to create a flavorful marinade. Next, I add the 8 chicken drumsticks to the bowl, tossing them to coat them fully. I recommend letting them marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinate them for up to 2 hours in the fridge. This step enhances the flavor a lot. Now, I preheat the air fryer. I set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating is key. It helps the drumsticks cook evenly and get that nice crispiness. Once the air fryer is hot, I arrange the marinated drumsticks in the basket. I make sure they sit in a single layer. This helps them cook properly without steaming. I cook the drumsticks for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, I turn them to ensure they brown evenly. To check if they are done, I use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C). After cooking, I remove the drumsticks and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle, making them even tastier. To get the best taste from your drumsticks, marinate them for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let them soak for up to 2 hours. This helps the flavors soak into the meat. Always use fresh ingredients, especially the garlic and lemon. Freshness can make a big difference in taste. Prevention is key to crispy skin. Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. If the drumsticks touch, they won't cook evenly. Arrange them in a single layer. For extra crispiness, you can pat the drumsticks dry before marinating. This removes excess moisture, which helps them crisp up better. Pair your lemon garlic drumsticks with simple side dishes. Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad work well. You can also serve them with rice or mashed potatoes. For a nice touch, garnish with fresh parsley after cooking. This adds color and a fresh flavor. {{image_2}} You can switch up the flavors in your air fryer lemon garlic drumsticks easily. Try using different marinades for a unique taste. Here are some ideas: - Honey Mustard Marinade: Mix equal parts honey and mustard for a sweet twist. - Spicy Sriracha Marinade: Add sriracha to your olive oil marinade for heat. - Herb Blend: Use fresh herbs like rosemary or basil for a garden-fresh flavor. You can also swap out chicken drumsticks for other cuts. Boneless chicken thighs work well for a juicier bite. Chicken wings are great too if you want a fun party snack! Want to make your drumsticks extra exciting? You can add spice or keep it citrusy. To make them spicy, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before cooking. For a stronger lemon taste, add more lemon juice or zest for a punch. Dipping sauces can elevate your meal. Here are some tasty options: - Garlic Aioli: Mix mayonnaise with minced garlic and lemon juice. - Spicy Ranch: Blend ranch dressing with hot sauce for a creamy kick. - Cilantro Lime Sauce: Combine Greek yogurt, cilantro, lime juice, and salt for freshness. These variations make your air fryer lemon garlic drumsticks fun and delicious! To keep air fryer lemon garlic drumsticks fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and prevents them from drying out. Place them in the fridge within two hours of cooking. They will stay good for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. They last for about two to three months in the freezer. Just remember to wrap them well in plastic wrap or foil. When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat them is in the air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes. This helps keep the skin crispy. If you use a microwave, place a paper towel over them to avoid sogginess. Heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking often. For the best taste, always try to reheat them in the air fryer. I usually cook air fryer drumsticks for 25 to 30 minutes. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Flip the drumsticks halfway through cooking. This helps them brown evenly. The exact time can vary. Always check for doneness to ensure they are crispy and golden. Yes, you can use frozen drumsticks. However, they need a little more time. Cook frozen drumsticks for about 30 to 35 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Do not thaw them. Check that they reach the safe temperature before serving. If using thawed drumsticks, follow the standard cooking time. The internal temperature of cooked chicken should be at least 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check this. Insert it into the thickest part of the drumstick. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and juicy. Always prioritize food safety in your cooking. This guide shows you how to make tasty air fryer chicken drumsticks. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for the best results. Remember, marinate well for flavor, preheat your air fryer, and avoid overcrowding. You can also mix up flavors and enjoy leftovers easily. With these tips, you'll create a dish that impresses everyone at your table. Enjoy your cooking!

Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Drumsticks

Savor the deliciousness of Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Drumsticks with this easy recipe! Juicy chicken drumsticks are marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, garlic, and lemon, then air-fried to perfection for a crispy finish. Perfect for a quick dinner or family gathering, this dish is packed with flavor and ready in just 35 minutes. Click to explore the full recipe and bring this mouthwatering meal to your table tonight!
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Ingredients
  

8 chicken drumsticks

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.

    Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade, tossing them until they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator).

      Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

        Arrange the marinated drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they are not overcrowded for even cooking.

          Cook the drumsticks for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.

            Once cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.

              Remove the drumsticks from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes.

                Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 servings