Let’s talk about that iconic KFC-style chicken we all know and love! It’s crispy, it’s juicy, and it’s dangerously delicious. But what if I told you that you can enjoy those mouthwatering flavors without the guilt? That’s where my air fryer KFC southern fried chicken drumsticks recipe comes in! This method gives you all the crispy goodness with way less oil, making it not just a treat but a healthier option for your dinner table. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked! The air fryer locks in that tender moisture while creating a beautifully golden crust that mimics the classic fried version. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your friends and family with this tasty twist on a beloved favorite!
Ingredients List
- 8 chicken drumsticks, skin-on, about 4 oz each
- 1 cup buttermilk, preferably whole for creaminess
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted for an even coating
- 1 tablespoon paprika, for that beautiful color and flavor
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder, to add a savory depth
- 1 tablespoon onion powder, for a hint of sweetness
- 1 tablespoon salt, to enhance all the flavors
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground for a bit of heat
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, adjust to taste for spiciness
- Cooking spray, to help achieve that crispy texture
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making these delicious air fryer KFC southern fried chicken drumsticks! Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to crispy, flavorful goodness.
Marinating the Chicken
First things first, you’ll want to marinate the chicken drumsticks in buttermilk. This is a crucial step, as the buttermilk will tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Simply place the drumsticks in a bowl or a zip-top bag, pour in the buttermilk, and make sure they’re fully submerged. For the best results, let them marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better! This waiting time is where the magic happens.
Preparing the Coating
While your chicken is soaking up all that creamy goodness, it’s time to create the coating! In a large bowl, mix together the sifted flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Each spice plays a role here: paprika adds that gorgeous color and smoky sweetness, while garlic and onion powders provide a savory kick. The salt enhances the flavors, and the cayenne gives you that extra heat! Make sure it’s well combined and ready to give your chicken a beautiful crust.
Air Frying the Drumsticks
Once your drumsticks have marinated, it’s time to dredge them in that flavorful flour mixture. Take each drumstick out of the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off, and coat it evenly in the flour mix. Make sure to shake off any extra flour to avoid clumping. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is key for achieving that crispy exterior! Now, place the coated drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them—this allows for maximum air circulation and crispiness. Lightly spray the drumsticks with cooking spray to help them crisp up. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Don’t rush this part; letting them rest for about 5 minutes after cooking will help the juices redistribute, making every bite extra juicy. Enjoy your homemade crispy chicken!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! These air fryer KFC southern fried chicken drumsticks pack a flavorful punch while being relatively guilt-free. Each serving, which consists of two drumsticks, contains approximately 420 calories. You’ll find about 20 grams of fat, with 5 grams being saturated. Plus, there’s a solid 30 grams of protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied. With 30 grams of carbohydrates and a touch of sodium at 800 mg, this dish is a great balance for a hearty meal. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and cooking methods, but they give you a good idea of what to expect!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time means you can enjoy delicious chicken without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Healthier option compared to traditional frying, as it uses significantly less oil while still delivering that crispy texture.
- Flavorful spices create a mouthwatering crust that rivals your favorite KFC-style chicken.
- Perfectly juicy and tender on the inside, thanks to the marination process.
- Easy to customize with your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch.
Tips for Success
To make sure your air fryer KFC southern fried chicken drumsticks turn out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips! First, aim for that optimal marination time—2 hours is good, but overnight is truly the sweet spot to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness. If your air fryer tends to run hot or cold, keep an eye on the drumsticks during cooking and adjust the time accordingly, as some brands may require a bit more or less time to achieve that golden crisp. Also, don’t forget to let them rest for those precious 5 minutes after cooking; it makes a world of difference in keeping the juices locked in! Serve them up with your favorite dipping sauces and a side of coleslaw or fries for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to switch things up with this air fryer KFC southern fried chicken drumsticks recipe! For a zesty twist, try adding some lemon zest and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the flour mixture. If you crave a smoky flavor, incorporate smoked paprika or even chipotle powder for a nice kick. You could also experiment with different coatings, such as crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs, for an extra crunchy texture. And don’t hesitate to play around with spices—cajun seasoning or Italian herbs can give your chicken a whole new personality. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you find yourself with any leftover air fryer KFC southern fried chicken drumsticks, don’t worry—they store beautifully! To keep them fresh, let the drumsticks cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They’ll last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the drumsticks for about 10-15 minutes. This will help maintain that crispy texture while warming them through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the chicken soggy. Trust me, following these steps will keep your leftovers just as delicious as the first time around!
Equipment List
To create these mouthwatering air fryer KFC southern fried chicken drumsticks, you’ll need a few essential tools! First and foremost, an air fryer is a must—this is where the magic happens, providing that crispy exterior without all the oil. I recommend one with a good capacity, so you can cook all your drumsticks in one go for maximum efficiency. A mixing bowl for combining your flour and spices is also essential, as well as a whisk or fork to ensure everything is evenly blended. Lastly, don’t forget a zip-top bag or bowl for marinating the chicken! With these tools, you’re all set to whip up a delicious meal!
For more information on the benefits of air frying, check out this Healthline article.
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Air Fryer KFC Southern Fried Chicken Drumsticks Recipe Delight
- Total Time: 150 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious recipe for air fryer KFC-style southern fried chicken drumsticks.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken drumsticks in buttermilk for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Remove the drumsticks from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
- Dredge each drumstick in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 5 minutes.
- Place the coated drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd.
- Spray the drumsticks lightly with cooking spray.
- Cook for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra crispy skin, increase the cooking time by 5 minutes.
- Try adding your favorite herbs or spices to the flour mixture for variation.
- Serve with your choice of dipping sauces.
- Prep Time: 120 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 drumsticks
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: air fryer, KFC, southern fried chicken, drumsticks, recipe
