Enjoy the flavors of Peru with these air-fried chicken drumsticks. The marinade infuses the chicken with a delicious blend of spices and herbs, while the air fryer gives them a crispy exterior. Serve these drumsticks with a zesty green crema for a creamy and tangy contrast. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup cilantro leaves
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a marinade.
- Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade and coat them well. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Remove the chicken drumsticks from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between them for proper air circulation.
- Air fry the drumsticks at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are cooked through and golden brown.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the green crema. In a blender, combine the plain Greek yogurt, cilantro leaves, chopped green onions, garlic clove, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Once the drumsticks are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the air-fried Peruvian chicken drumsticks with the green crema on the side for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Peruvian cuisine is known for its diverse flavors and influences from various cultures, including Inca, Spanish, African, and Asian.
The use of lime juice and spices in the marinade helps tenderize the chicken and infuse it with vibrant flavors.
Air frying is a healthier cooking method that produces crispy results similar to deep frying but with a fraction of the oil.
The green crema adds a refreshing and vibrant touch to the dish, complementing the savory flavors of the chicken drumsticks.