Garlic Butter Chicken Drumsticks (Air Fryer Recipe) | Crispy, Juicy & Easy

There’s something magical about the smell of sizzling garlic butter wafting through the kitchen. The first time I made these Garlic Butter Chicken Drumsticks, my family’s reaction said it all — crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and that golden buttery glaze clinging to every bite.

What makes this recipe a keeper? It’s quick (done in about 40 minutes), uses simple pantry staples, and turns out restaurant-worthy results every single time — thanks to the air fryer. You’ll learn how to create the perfect marinade, get that golden crispiness, and finish with a luscious garlic butter sauce that’s pure flavor heaven.

Whether you’re cooking drumsticks or thighs, this is your new go-to weeknight dinner recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortlessly Delicious: Simple ingredients, incredible flavor.
• Crispy & Juicy: The air fryer guarantees golden skin and tender meat.
• Family Favorite: Adults and kids love it — every time.
• Quick Weeknight Hero: Ready in under 40 minutes.
• Healthy-ish Option: Less oil, same crunch and flavor.

Key Ingredients

For the Marinade

• 4–6 chicken drumsticks or thighs (bone-in or boneless, skin-on recommended)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced, soaked in water for 10 minutes)
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• Salt & black pepper (to taste)
• Pinch of five-spice powder

For the Garlic Butter Topping

• 1–2 tbsp butter (melted or softened)
• 1 tbsp minced garlic or garlic paste
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for depth)
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for color)

Equipment

• Air fryer (or oven)
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs, brush, knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep & Marinate

1. Soak minced garlic in a few tablespoons of water for 10 minutes to mellow its flavor.
2. Cut small slits into the chicken for better marinade absorption.
3. In a bowl, combine garlic water (not solids), oyster sauce, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and five-spice powder.
4. Add chicken and mix until evenly coated. Marinate for 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge).

Step 2: Air Fry the First Side

1. Preheat air fryer to 180°C / 350°F.
2. Arrange chicken in a single layer, ensuring pieces don’t overlap.
3. Cook for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter

While chicken cooks, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and a splash of oyster sauce (optional) until smooth and fragrant.

Step 4: Flip & Continue Cooking

1. Flip chicken after the first 10 minutes.
2. Air fry another 10 minutes at 180°C / 350°F.

Step 5: Add Garlic Butter & Final Bake

1. Brush garlic butter generously over each piece.
2. Return to air fryer and cook for an additional 8–10 minutes, until golden brown and crisp.
3. Ensure internal temperature reaches 74°C / 165°F.

Step 6: Rest & Serve

Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Drizzle with extra garlic butter and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Steamed white rice or fried rice
• Roasted or air-fried vegetables (broccoli, green beans, asparagus)
• Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic bread
• Fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette

Pro Tips

• Dry the skin before marinating for extra crispiness.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket — cook in batches if needed.
• Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness (74°C / 165°F).
• Oven method: Bake at 200°C / 400°F for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway and adding garlic butter for the last 10–15 minutes.
• Longer marination = richer flavor (2–4 hours or overnight).

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: ~310
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbs: 2g
• *Varies by cut and butter amount*

Printable Recipe Card

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Chicken Drumsticks recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With minimal prep and everyday ingredients, you’ll get crispy, juicy chicken bursting with buttery garlic flavor — the perfect weeknight meal that everyone will love.

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