Go Back

Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks

These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks deliver crispy, flavorful results with a spicy and tangy buffalo sauce, making them perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 drumsticks
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 8 pieces chicken drumsticks The main protein that absorbs the spicy sauce beautifully.
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil Helps achieve that golden crispy texture on the skin.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika or chili powder Adds a delicious smoky flavor and enhances the dish's color.
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper or cayenne Provides a kick of heat that complements the buffalo sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon salt or seasoned salt Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
For the Buffalo Sauce
  • 1/2 cup hot sauce The key ingredient for the signature buffalo flavor.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter Adds richness to the buffalo sauce while balancing the heat.
  • 1 tablespoon molasses or honey Offers a touch of sweetness to contrast with the heat of the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch Used to thicken the buffalo sauce for a clingy consistency.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. In a bowl, combine paprika, pepper or cayenne, and salt.
  3. Pat the drumsticks dry with a paper towel and poke 10 to 15 holes in the skin of each using a sharp knife or metal skewer.
  4. Rub the drumsticks with vegetable oil and sprinkle with the spice mixture, ensuring the spices reach beneath the skin.
Cooking
  1. Arrange the drumsticks in the air fryer basket, spacing them evenly apart.
  2. Cook until the chicken is crisp and reaches an internal temperature of 195 degrees Fahrenheit, approximately 22 to 25 minutes, flipping and rotating halfway through.
  3. If using chicken legs, cook until well browned and crispy, about 27 to 30 minutes.
Buffalo Sauce
  1. Meanwhile, microwave hot sauce, butter, molasses, and cornstarch in a microwave-safe bowl until hot, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  2. Once the chicken is cooked, brush generously with the buffalo sauce and air fry for an additional 2 minutes.
  3. Transfer the chicken to a plate, tent loosely with aluminum foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  4. Toss the chicken in more buffalo sauce or brush additional sauce on before serving.

Notes

These drumsticks are versatile and pair well with salads, fries, or as a topping for grain bowls. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.