
Crispy Frozen Chicken Drumsticks in Air Fryer – Quick Recipe
Frozen chicken drumsticks cooked directly in the air fryer, resulting in crispy skin and juicy meat, with aromatic spices.
Steps
- 1
Do not preheat the air fryer. Lightly spray the basket with olive oil spray and place the frozen drumsticks directly in the basket.
- 2
Set the air fryer to 180°C (360°F) and cook for 15 minutes. After this time, sprinkle one-third of the seasoning mix over the drumsticks and turn them.
- 3
Cook for another 15 minutes. Turn the drumsticks again, spray with olive oil, and sprinkle the remaining seasoning.
- 4
Optional: brush the drumsticks with BBQ sauce. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
- 5
Serve immediately. Check the internal temperature with a digital thermometer before serving.
Shopping list
6 pieces frozen chicken legs (bone-in, skin-on, about 1 kg), 2 tbsp dry rub, BBQ sauce (optional), olive oil spray
Recipe story
Chicken drumsticks are a beloved dish in cuisines worldwide, from American barbecues to family meals in Asia. In the southern United States, fried chicken drumsticks are a symbol of culinary comfort. This recipe adapts the tradition for the air fryer, offering a crispy texture without using much oil.
Ingredient Secrets

Olive oil
Originating in the Mediterranean basin, olive oil was already produced in ancient Crete 5,000 years ago. In ancient Greece, it was considered a gift from Athena and used in lamps, cosmetics, and religious ceremonies. The Romans spread it throughout the empire, and in the Middle Ages, monasteries preserved the tradition of its production.
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