Air Fryer KFC Southern Fried Chicken Drumsticks Delightful Recipe

Name: Air Fryer KFC Southern Fried Chicken Drumsticks Delightful Recipe
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 chicken drumsticks; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 18, 2025

Air fryer KFC Southern Fried Chicken Drumsticks - Pretty Delicious Eats

This post may contain affiliate links learn more

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Air Fryer KFC Southern Fried Chicken Drumsticks! They’re a game-changer, I promise. Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy, seasoned skin that gives way to tender, juicy chicken. Seriously, it’s like having your favorite takeout right at home, but without all the guilt! The air fryer does its magic by delivering that crave-worthy crunch while keeping things a bit healthier compared to traditional frying methods.

You won’t believe how easy these drumsticks are to prepare. With just a simple marinade in buttermilk and a flavorful coating of spices, you’re well on your way to chicken perfection. Plus, the cooking time is a breeze—say goodbye to waiting hours for your fried chicken fix! This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you want to impress friends with your cooking skills. Trust me, they’ll be begging for seconds!

So, roll up your sleeves, grab those chicken drumsticks, and let’s make some delicious, finger-lickin’ fried chicken that’ll have everyone asking for your secret recipe!

Air fryer KFC Southern Fried Chicken Drumsticks - Pretty Delicious Eats - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Air Fryer KFC Southern Fried Chicken Drumsticks a hit in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

8 chicken drumsticks
1 cup buttermilk (this is what makes the chicken so tender and flavorful!)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons paprika (for that beautiful color and smoky flavor)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice level!)

These ingredients blend together to create a crispy, flavorful coating that’s going to blow your mind. Make sure you have everything ready before you start, so the process flows smoothly. Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Air Fryer KFC Southern Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the process of preparing these Air Fryer KFC Southern Fried Chicken Drumsticks. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to fried chicken heaven!

Marinating the Chicken

First things first, marinating your chicken in buttermilk is a game changer! This step is crucial because it tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor. I like to let the drumsticks soak for at least 2 hours—if you can manage it, letting them marinate overnight is even better! Just pop them in a bowl or a zip-top bag, and let that buttermilk work its magic. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Preparing the Coating

While the chicken is soaking up all that deliciousness, let’s get the coating ready. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 2 teaspoons of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Give it a good stir to make sure all those flavors are evenly mixed. This is where the magic happens, as this flavorful blend will create that crispy, crunchy coating we all love!

Preheating the Air Fryer

Next up, it’s time to preheat your air fryer! Set it to 400°F (200°C) and let it warm up for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that golden-brown color we all crave. Don’t skip this step—it’s essential for achieving the perfect fry!

Coating the Drumsticks

Now, let’s get those drumsticks coated! Take each marinated chicken drumstick and dredge it in the flour mixture. Make sure to coat it well, but don’t forget to shake off any excess flour. We want that perfect balance of crunch—too much flour can lead to a clumpy coating, and nobody wants that. So, just a gentle shake will do the trick!

Cooking the Drumsticks

Place the coated drumsticks in your air fryer basket in a single layer. You might need to cook them in batches if they’re too close together. Cook the chicken for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. This is where the air fryer really shines—it circulates hot air for that crispy skin without needing to deep fry!

Checking for Doneness

Finally, it’s time to check if your drumsticks are ready! The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. You can use a meat thermometer to check this. If you don’t have one, just cut into the thickest part of the drumstick; the juices should run clear, and the meat should be tender. If it’s not quite there yet, give it a few more minutes. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Tips for Success

Want to make sure your Air Fryer KFC Southern Fried Chicken Drumsticks turn out perfectly every time? Here are some of my favorite pro tips that’ll have you serving up deliciousness like a pro!

For Extra Crispiness

If you’re after that ultra-crispy skin, here’s a little secret: Lightly spray the drumsticks with cooking oil before air frying. This helps to enhance the golden-brown color and adds that extra crunch we all love. Just a quick spritz will do the trick—don’t go overboard!

Mind the Space

Make sure to arrange the drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If they’re too close together, they won’t cook evenly, and you might miss out on that coveted crispiness. If you have a lot of drumsticks, cook them in batches. It’s worth the little extra time to get that perfect fry!

Serving Suggestions

These drumsticks are fantastic on their own, but don’t forget about dipping sauces! Serve them with your favorite ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for a flavor explosion. You can even whip up a quick dipping sauce by mixing some mayonnaise with hot sauce for a zesty kick!

Pairing Ideas

For a complete meal, pair these drumsticks with a fresh side salad, some creamy coleslaw, or classic mac and cheese. The contrast of flavors and textures will make your meal even more satisfying. Trust me, your family and friends will be raving about it!

Storage Tips

If you happen to have any leftovers (which I doubt, but just in case!), let the drumsticks cool down completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 3 days. Just reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back that crispy texture!

Nutritional Information Section

When it comes to enjoying these Air Fryer KFC Southern Fried Chicken Drumsticks, it’s always good to know what you’re munching on! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, which is about 2 drumsticks:

Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 25g

This nutritional profile means you can enjoy these drumsticks guilt-free, knowing they pack a protein punch while keeping things deliciously satisfying! Perfect for a hearty meal that won’t weigh you down. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

FAQ Section

Got questions about these mouthwatering Air Fryer KFC Southern Fried Chicken Drumsticks? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with answers to help you nail this recipe every time.

Can I use skinless chicken drumsticks for this recipe?

Absolutely! Skinless drumsticks will still turn out delicious, but just keep in mind that you might miss out on that crispy skin that everyone loves. If you go with skinless, make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may cook a bit faster. You want that internal temperature to hit 165°F (75°C), just like with the skin-on version!

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, no worries! You can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will give you that tangy flavor and moisture that’s essential for the marinade!

Can I make these drumsticks ahead of time?

Yes, you can! If you want to prep ahead, marinate the chicken in buttermilk and coat them in the flour mixture. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before popping them in the air fryer. This helps them cook more evenly!

How do I store leftovers?

If you happen to have any drumsticks left (which is rare!), let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back that crispy texture. You’ll be amazed at how well they hold up!

Can I use other parts of the chicken?

For sure! This air fryer method is fantastic for other chicken parts too, like wings or thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as smaller pieces will cook faster than drumsticks. Always check for that magical internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re safe to eat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy Preparation: With just a couple of hours for marinating and about 30 minutes in the air fryer, you can have homemade fried chicken on the table in no time!
Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and buttermilk creates a deliciously seasoned drumstick that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.
Healthier Cooking Method: Using the air fryer means you get all the crispy goodness of fried chicken but with less oil. It’s a win-win for your taste buds and your waistline!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these drumsticks are sure to impress and satisfy everyone.
Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to tweak the spice levels or pair them with your favorite dipping sauces for a personalized touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you’re lucky enough to have any Air Fryer KFC Southern Fried Chicken Drumsticks left over (which is a rare occurrence in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them to keep that deliciousness intact.

First, let the drumsticks cool down completely before storing them. This helps prevent moisture buildup in your storage container, which can make the chicken soggy. Once they’re cooled, place the drumsticks in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3 days. Make sure to label the container with the date so you know when they were made!

When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheating in the air fryer is your best bet for retaining that crispy texture. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and arrange the drumsticks in a single layer. Heat them for about 5-7 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This will get them nice and warm while reviving that coveted crunch!

If you don’t have an air fryer handy, you can also reheat them in a conventional oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the drumsticks on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Just keep an eye on them to avoid drying out.

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor every last bite of those mouthwatering drumsticks just like they were freshly made. Enjoy!