Discover the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition with these **Heart-Healthy Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks**, a lighter take on a timeless favorite. Marinated in a vibrant blend of olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, lemon zest, and a salt-free seasoning blend, these drumsticks are bursting with bold, aromatic flavors while staying low in sodium. Cooking in the air fryer ensures a crispy, golden exterior without the need for excess oil, while a splash of low-sodium chicken broth keeps the meat juicy and tender. With just 25 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is a quick and wholesome option for weeknights, ideal for serving alongside steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. Perfect for those seeking heart-healthy, gluten-free, and guilt-free indulgence, these drumsticks are sure to be your new go-to!
In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, lemon zest, black pepper, and salt-free seasoning blend until well combined.
Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss gently to coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 5 minutes.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with a non-stick cooking spray or brush it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Arrange the drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Pour a bit of the low-sodium chicken broth into the bottom of the air fryer to keep the chicken moist during cooking.
Cook the chicken drumsticks at 380°F (193°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove the drumsticks from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve warm with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to maintain the heart-healthy theme.
Calories |
1542 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 88.2 g | 113% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.0 g | 115% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 744 mg | 248% | |
| Sodium | 584 mg | 25% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 8.6 g | 3% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.3 g | 12% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.6 g | ||
| Protein | 179.4 g | 359% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 129 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 8.7 mg | 48% | |
| Potassium | 1924 mg | 41% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.