Creating Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy during cooking.
2. Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Add the drumsticks to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until they are evenly coated. For best results, let them marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
5. Arrange the Drumsticks: Place the marinated 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.
6. Cook the Drumsticks: Air fry the chicken drumsticks for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
7. Glaze with Extra Sauce: During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the drumsticks with additional barbecue sauce for a sticky finish.
8. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture.

These steps will guide you in creating these incredible drumsticks effortlessly.