Discover an easy and delicious recipe for air-fried chicken drumsticks that immerses juicy chicken in a zesty lemon and herb marinade. Perfect for busy UK home cooks looking for a satisfying, healthy meal, this dish combines the crispiness of fried chicken with the aromatic freshness of herbs and citrus notes, all without the added oil of traditional frying methods.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients, most of which are pantry staples, to create a marinade that infuses the chicken with flavour:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 lemons, juiced and zested
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, oregano, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for a deeper flavour infusion.
3. Air Fry the Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (approximately 390°F). Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Place the drumsticks in the fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Depending on the size of your fryer, you may need to cook in batches.
Air fry the drumsticks for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) to be considered fully cooked.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is crisp and golden, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy these delicious drumsticks hot, paired with a side salad or your favourite dipping sauce.
Tips for Success
- Marinate the chicken overnight for an even more intense flavour.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of chilli flakes to the marinade.
- Always ensure chicken is cooked to the safe temperature of 75°C (165°F) to avoid foodborne illness.
Why Choose Air Frying?
Air frying offers a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods by significantly reducing the amount of oil needed. This technique uses hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior with fewer calories. Ideal for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing taste and texture.
Conclusion
Air-fried chicken drumsticks marinated in a fresh lemon and herb mixture represent the perfect union of ease, taste, and health. With minimal preparation, these drumsticks are sure to become a favourite for UK home cooks, looking for a delicious weekday meal that doesn’t compromise on flavour or cooking time. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delectable combination of crispy chicken with zesty, aromatic seasonings.