Buffalo Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks are coated in a zesty buffalo sauce that’s truly finger-licking good. This is an easy, flavorful way to make air fryer chicken legs with just the right amount of heat.
Air frying chicken yields juicy meat with a crisp exterior, making it one of the best methods for weeknight dinners. It’s fast, convenient, and consistently delicious.
Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks
If you have drumsticks in the fridge or freezer, try this buffalo variation. These chicken legs in the air fryer are simple to prepare and full of flavor.
Serve with your favorite sides to create a satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy.
How Spicy Are These Buffalo Drumsticks
These drumsticks bring a noticeable kick, but the heat level depends on the buffalo sauce you choose and how liberally you coat the chicken. Buffalo sauces range from mild to very hot, so pick one that matches your tolerance.
How to Tame Down The Heat
If the sauce is too spicy for your taste, serve the drumsticks with ranch or blue cheese dressing. Either will mellow the heat and add a cool, creamy contrast to the buffalo flavor.
Is Using An Air Fryer Easy
Yes. Air fryers give food a deep-fried texture using circulating hot air instead of oil, so you get crisp results without the grease. They’re user-friendly: set the temperature and time, and the appliance does the rest.
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken
You can substitute chicken thighs or other cuts. The main consideration is adjusting cooking time based on thickness. Thicker pieces need more time; smaller pieces need less. This recipe works in basket-style air fryers, oven-style air fryer ovens, and can be adapted for a conventional oven.
How to Know When Chicken Is Done
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Insert the probe into the thickest part of the meat without touching bone; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If it hasn’t reached that temperature, return the drumsticks to the air fryer and cook a bit longer.
I Don’t Have An Air Fryer
No air fryer? Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and follow the same steps, adjusting cook time as needed. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Drumsticks
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Drumsticks can be enjoyed cold or reheated in the microwave or oven. Note that refrigeration will slightly change the texture, but the flavor remains excellent.
Want More Chicken Recipes
- Air Fryer Sweet and Spicy Chicken Tenders
- Instant Pot Chicken Pinwheels
- Instant Pot Swiss Chicken
- Fried Air Fryer Chicken
Buffalo Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients
- 6 chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 packet powdered ranch
- 1 stick unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
Instructions
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Pat drumsticks dry with paper towels.
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Brush each drumstick with melted butter.
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Arrange the buttered drumsticks in the air fryer basket or on the rack, leaving space between pieces for even air circulation.
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Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.
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While the chicken cooks, whisk together 1 cup buffalo sauce and 1/2 packet powdered ranch in a bowl.
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Remove drumsticks from the air fryer and baste them with the buffalo-ranch mixture.
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Return the drumsticks to the air fryer and cook an additional 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Remove from the air fryer and serve with your favorite sides and dipping sauce.
Nutrition
Calories: 328kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 157mg
Sodium: 1141mg
Sugar: 1g
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