Air Fried BBQ Drumsticks

These air-fried BBQ Chicken drumsticks are so delicious and simple to make. Cook up a batch and serve with potato salad or baked beans, or shred the meat for a quick salad.

Ingredients

BBQ Rub

• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dry mustard
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 2 Tbsp smoked paprika

Drumsticks

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 2 tablespoons neutral oil

BBQ Sauce

• 1 cup ketchup
• ⅓ cup molasses
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp liquid smoke
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp cumin

Preparation

1. Make the BBQ rub: Add the brown sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard, chili powder, and smoked paprika to a medium bowl and mix well. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.

2. Make the drumsticks: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

3. In a large bowl, toss the drumsticks with the oil and ¼ cup of the BBQ rub until coated evenly.

4. Place the drumsticks in the air fryer and cook, flipping halfway, for 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 175°F (80° C).

5. Meanwhile, make the BBQ sauce: Add the ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, pepper, and cumin to a small pot. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 10 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Remove from the heat (if making ahead, let cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use, up to 2 weeks).

6. Once the drumsticks are done, brush liberally with the BBQ sauce, then air fry for 5 minutes more to set the sauce.

7. Brush or drizzle the drumsticks with more BBQ sauce and serve with your favorite sides.

8. Enjoy!