Easy Turkey Drumstick Air Fryer Recipe – Juicy & Crispy

Turkey drumsticks are a flavorful and hearty option for a variety of meals. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a simple dinner, cooking turkey drumsticks in an air fryer delivers the perfect combination of crispy skin and juicy meat in less time than traditional methods. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also healthier, as it requires minimal oil. With a few simple ingredients and an air fryer, you can achieve tender, flavorful turkey drumsticks that the whole family will love.

---

Recipe Details

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Course
• Servings: 2-4
• Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving

---

Prep Time, Cooking Time & Total Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Active Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

---

Ingredients

To make these perfectly seasoned turkey drumsticks, you’ll need:

1. Turkey Drumsticks – 2 large pieces (around 1.5 pounds total)
2. Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon
3. Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon
4. Paprika – 1 teaspoon
5. Dried Thyme – 1/2 teaspoon
6. Onion Powder – 1/2 teaspoon
7. Salt – 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
8. Black Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
9. Optional: A pinch of cayenne pepper for added spice
10. Lemon Wedges – For garnish (optional)

---

Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Small mixing bowl
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer

---

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 29g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 650mg

---

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Drumsticks

1. Rinse the turkey drumsticks under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Using a sharp knife, make small slits in the drumstick meat to help the seasoning penetrate better.

Step 2: Season the Turkey

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper.
2. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey drumsticks, ensuring an even coating.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Turkey Drumsticks

1. Place the seasoned drumsticks in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping for even cooking.
2. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
   • Flip the drumsticks halfway through cooking for even browning.
   • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Rest the Turkey

1. Once done, remove the drumsticks from the air fryer and let them rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the turkey drumsticks warm, garnished with lemon wedges if desired. Pair with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.

---

Tips for Success

1. Don’t Skip the Slits: Making small cuts in the meat allows the seasoning to infuse deeply, enhancing the flavor.
2. Use a Thermometer: Always use a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking or overcooking.
3. Avoid Overcrowding: If your air fryer is small, cook the drumsticks in batches to ensure even air circulation and crispiness.
4. Experiment with Spices: You can switch up the spices to suit your taste. Try adding smoked paprika, rosemary, or chili powder for a unique twist.

---

Why Use an Air Fryer for Turkey Drumsticks?

1. Quick Cooking: The air fryer cuts cooking time significantly compared to oven roasting.
2. Healthier Option: You only need a small amount of oil, making it a healthier alternative to frying.
3. Perfect Texture: The air fryer delivers crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside.

---

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your turkey drumsticks with:
  • Creamy mashed potatoes
  • Honey-glazed carrots
  • Steamed broccoli
  • Cranberry sauce
  • Cornbread stuffing

---

Variations

1. BBQ Turkey Drumsticks: Swap the olive oil and spices for your favorite BBQ sauce. Brush the sauce onto the drumsticks halfway through cooking for a caramelized glaze.
2. Lemon Herb Drumsticks: Add freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a bright and zesty flavor.

---

Storage and Reheating

1. Storage: Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness.

---

Conclusion

This air fryer turkey drumstick recipe is a game-changer for quick, easy, and delicious meals. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a festive feast, these drumsticks are sure to impress. With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, combined with bold and savory flavors, this dish will become a family favorite. Give it a try today, and enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of air fryer cooking!