Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs Chicken drumsticks (about 6–8 pieces)
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil or avocado oil
- 1.5 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 teaspoon Fresh lemon zest
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Start by patting the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is the secret to achieving extra-crispy skin. Place the drumsticks in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. In a small ramekin, mix the lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and lemon zest. Sprinkle the spice blend over the chicken and use your hands or tongs to massage the seasoning into every crevice of the meat. Let the chicken sit for 5 minutes at room temperature while you preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the seasoned drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Ensure they are not touching or overlapping to allow the hot air to circulate freely. Cook at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes. At the 12-minute mark, open the basket and use tongs to flip each drumstick. This ensures even browning and crisping on all sides. Continue cooking until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer near the bone.
- Once finished, remove the drumsticks from the air fryer and let them rest on a plate for 3 to 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and an extra dusting of lemon pepper if desired. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of bright acidity right before eating.
- Cook Time: 35 minutes