Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
I love how quickly these come together—just a short marinade, a simple coating, and the air fryer does the rest. The spices in the marinade give the chicken a warm, savory flavor, and the cornflake crust makes every bite crunchy without being greasy. It’s an easy weeknight favorite.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
1kg chicken drumsticks 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
Marinade ¼ cup mayo 1 Tbsp milk 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp paprika 1 tsp garlic powder ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp pepper
Directions
I start by mixing the mayo, milk, and spices in a large container. I add the chicken drumsticks and stir or shake them to coat thoroughly. I let them marinate for 30 minutes so the flavors sink into the meat.
I coat each drumstick in the crushed cornflakes, pressing gently so the crumbs stick well. I place the coated drumsticks in the air fryer basket, giving them a light spray of oil.
I air fry the drumsticks at 180°C for 18–20 minutes, until they are golden, crispy, and cooked through. I serve them hot with mashed potatoes, gravy, and peas.
Sometimes I add chili powder for extra heat or swap paprika for smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. Crushed rice bubbles or panko breadcrumbs also work if I run out of cornflakes. Adding dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the coating gives a more aromatic finish.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 170°C to revive the crispiness. Microwaving softens the coating, so I avoid it if possible.
FAQs
Can I skip the marinating time?
You can, but marinating makes the chicken juicier and more flavorful.
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, though cooking time will be shorter.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Gluten-free cornflakes work perfectly.
Why did the coating fall off?
Patting the chicken dry first and pressing the crumbs on firmly helps them stick.
Can I bake these instead?
Yes—bake at 180°C for 45–60 minutes.
Do I need to flip them in the air fryer?
I usually do halfway through for even crisping.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayo?
Yes, it gives a tangier flavor but works well.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but I cook in batches so the air fryer isn’t overcrowded.
How do I know the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 74°C and the juices run clear.
Can I make these spicy?
I add cayenne, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the marinade.
Conclusion
I love how these air fryer crispy chicken drumsticks deliver big flavor and crunch with minimal work. The seasoned marinade keeps the chicken tender while the cornflake crust crisps beautifully. They’re easy, delicious, and perfect for a family-friendly meal.
