AIR-FRYER CAJUN TURKEY DRUMSTICKS

AF-200 Crew Thanksgiving Recipe

AIR-FRYER CAJUN TURKEY DRUMSTICKS

Turkey doesn't always have to taste like Christmas dinner.

AIR-FRYER CAJUN TURKEY DRUMSTICKS
AIR-FRYER CAJUN TURKEY DRUMSTICKS preparation stage

You’ll Need

For the Turkey
4 turkey drumsticks
2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tsp smoked paprika
2 tsp Cajun seasoning, 1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp sea salt
½ tsp cracked black pepper
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Hot Honey Butter Glaze
30g butter, melted
2 tbsp hot honey
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
To Finish
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges
Optional but Dangerous
Ranch dressing
Creamy mashed potatoes
Cornbread
Cajun dirty rice
Pickled jalapeños

Method

Preheat your air fryer to 190°C.

Pat the turkey drumsticks dry thoroughly with kitchen paper.

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper and cayenne.

Rub the seasoning mixture generously over every drumstick.

Arrange the drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

Air fry for 20 minutes.

Turn the drumsticks and cook for another 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, whisk together the melted butter, hot honey, Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce.

Brush the drumsticks generously with the glaze.

Return to the air fryer for a final 8–10 minutes, brushing once more halfway through, until the skin is sticky, beautifully caramelised and the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 75°C.

Finish with chopped parsley and serve with fresh lemon wedges.

Serve immediately with your favourite Thanksgiving sides.

Lad Tip: Turkey drumsticks are built for bold seasoning, so don't hold back with the Cajun rub. The skin should come out dark, smoky and slightly sticky, while the meat underneath stays juicy enough to pull cleanly from the bone. That's proper Thanksgiving with a Southern attitude.

Get the free weekly recipe + weekend challenge.

Free weekly recipe. Weekend challenge. No nonsense.

By joining, you agree to receive AF-200 Crew emails, including occasional offers or affiliate recommendations. Unsubscribe any time. Privacy policy.