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Air fryers have surged in popularity among home cooks, transforming the way we prepare our favorite meals. They offer a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, allowing you to enjoy crispy, delicious dishes with significantly less oil. This trend has inspired countless recipes, including our featured dish: Zesty Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Drumsticks.

Juicy Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Drumsticks

If you're looking for a bright and flavorful dish for your spring gatherings or a cozy Easter brunch, try these Zesty Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Drumsticks. This easy weeknight dinner is packed with succulent chicken marinated in fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs, all cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer. Its a delightful, healthier option that will impress your family and friends. Save this for later and bring a burst of citrus joy to your table!
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Ingredients
  

8 chicken drumsticks

4 tablespoons olive oil

Juice of 2 large lemons

Zest of 1 lemon

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)

1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)

2 teaspoons paprika

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.

    Prepare the Drumsticks: Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss them until they are well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor.

      Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

        Arrange Drumsticks: Remove the marinated drumsticks from the refrigerator. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap to allow for even cooking.

          Cook the Drumsticks: Air fry the chicken drumsticks at 380°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

            Crisp Them Up: If you prefer extra crispy skin, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and air fry for an additional 2-5 minutes, checking frequently to avoid burning.

              Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the air fryer and allow them to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

                Enjoy: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad!

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes | Servings: 4