Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken Recipe

Close-up of three air fryer hot honey chicken drumsticks in an air fryer basket.

5 from 1 vote

Crispy skin, juicy meat, and a sticky-sweet glaze with a slow, satisfying kick - hot honey air fryer chicken legs that absolutely deliver. The air fryer works its magic while garlic, paprika, and chili powder bring serious flavor. It’s weeknight-friendly, snack-approved, and so meaty, you’ll finally get what wings were trying to be.

Prep Time5

Cook Time20

Total Time25

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Diet: Gluten Free

Keyword: air fryer hot honey chicken legs

Servings: drumsticks

Calories: 145kcal

Author: Bethany Galloway

Ingredients

1.1 kg chicken drumsticks about 2.5 lbs
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1/2-1 teaspoon salt

Hot honey sauce

4 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons hot sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer to 200°C/392°F, and set the time to 25 minutes, allowing it to heat for 5 minutes.
Strain the drumsticks in a strainer and pat them dry with a paper towel.
1.1 kg chicken drumsticks
Place the drumsticks in a mixing bowl along with the spices and mix them well together.
1 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2-1 teaspoon salt
After the air fryer has heated for 5 minutes, place the drumsticks in the air fryer and cook for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, remove the air fryer basket from the air fryer and turn the drumsticks with tongs.
Close the basket and air fry for another 10 minutes.
Make sure the chicken is cooked through by checking it with a meat thermometer. It should read 75°C/165°F.
Make the hot honey sauce by mixing honey, hot sauce, and garlic powder together.
4 tablespoons honey, 2 teaspoons hot sauce, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Brush the hot honey sauce over the chicken on both sides and then air fry for 2 more minutes.
Allow the chicken to cool for 5 minutes. Then dig in and enjoy!

Notes

Work in batches: Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking and soft skin - space the drumsticks out in a single layer.
Adjust to your air fryer: Every model runs a little differently, so check early the first time to avoid overcooking.
Boost the heat: Add cayenne pepper or extra hot sauce to the glaze if you like it spicy.
Use a meat thermometer: Overcooked chicken = dry chicken. Aim for 75°C/165°F for juicy, safe drumsticks.
Let them rest: Resting stops the juices from spilling out when you cut in, keeping your chicken moist and tender.

Storage instructions

Fridge: Store cooled drumsticks in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a single layer first, then transfer to a bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Pop them back in the air fryer at 180°C/356°F for 4–5 minutes to bring the crisp back.
Best for: Meal prep, lunchboxes, or that midnight fridge raid when you “forgot” you made extras.

Nutrition