Air-Fryer Chinese-Style Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Greens

Air-Fryer Chinese-Style Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Greens

Air-Fryer Chinese-Style Chicken Drumsticks with Steamed Greens

This air-fryer chicken dish is simple, savoury, and deeply satisfying, built entirely from pantry staples. A soy- and oyster-based marinade with garlic, ginger, and sesame oil creates a rich, glossy coating that caramelises beautifully in the air fryer without added sugar or heavy oil. The result is tender, juicy drumsticks with crisp skin and bold flavour.

Served alongside lightly steamed Chinese cabbage and snow peas, this is a clean, balanced meal that feels comforting without being heavy. The mild, juicy greens soak up the savoury juices from the chicken, making this an ideal midweek dinner that’s quick, repeatable, and family-friendly.

Ingredients

  • 8 chicken drumsticks
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1–2 tsp crushed garlic
  • 1–2 tsp crushed ginger
  • ½ tsp cracked black pepper
  • Chinese cabbage (wombok), cut into large wedges or thick strips
  • Snow peas, trimmed
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: a few drops of sesame oil or soy sauce
  • Plate the drumsticks with the steamed greens on the side, allowing the cabbage and snow peas to soak up the savoury juices from the chicken.

Method

  1. In a large bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and cracked black pepper.
  2. Slash each drumstick 2–3 times at the thickest part. Add to the marinade and toss well to coat.
  3. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer if time allows.
  4. Pre-heat air fryer to 200 °C.
  5. Arrange drumsticks in a single layer.
  6. Cook for 20–22 minutes, turning halfway and brushing with remaining marinade, until golden, caramelised, and cooked through.
  7. Rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.
  8. Place Chinese cabbage and snow peas into a microwave steamer with 1–2 tablespoons of water and a small pinch of salt.
  9. Cover and microwave on high for 3–4 minutes, until just tender but still bright.
  10. Drain any excess water and optionally finish with a few drops of sesame oil or soy sauce.
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Pro tip: Slashing the drumsticks helps the marinade penetrate and ensures even cooking, especially in the air fryer. Don’t overcook — once the skin is golden and the meat pulls easily from the bone, they’re done.

Optional Extras

  • Lemon wedges – brightens the chicken and greens
  • Extra sliced spring onions – freshness and crunch
  • Chilli sauce – for those who want heat
  • Sesame seeds – light sprinkle for texture and aroma

Nutrition

Energy320 cal / 1339 kJ
Carbs7g
Net Carbs4g
Fibre3g
Protein36g