Butterflied Chicken Drumsticks

Name: Butterflied Chicken Drumsticks with Smoked Paprika Rub
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 chicken drumsticks; 1 tbsp cooking oil; 2 tbsp smoked paprika; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp onion powder; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp ground mustard; 1 tbsp chili powder; salt, to taste; black pepper, to taste; 1 packet ranch seasoning mix; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 2 tbsp milk, or to desired consistency

Butterflied chicken drumsticks are flattened to cook faster and more evenly, then coated in a smoky paprika and garlic spice rub for crispy, flavorful results. This technique ensures even cooking throughout while maximizing surface area for seasoning.

⚡Air Fryer

🌍American 🏷️Chicken drumsticks 🏷️Butterflied chicken 🏷️Air fryer chicken Chicken recipe

🏷️

🏷️Spicy

🏷️Smoky

-0:00

jackiehartlaubonTikTok

Total

35 min

Servings

2

Difficulty

Medium

Est. Cost

$25–$41

Recipe Source

View original recipe

From TikTok · by jackiehartlaub

-0:00

jackiehartlaubonTikTok

Ingredients

4 chicken drumsticks
1 tbsp cooking oil
2 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp ground mustard
1 tbsp chili powder
salt, to taste
black pepper, to taste
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
2 tbsp mayonnaise
2 tbsp milk, or to desired consistency

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Instructions

1
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, ground mustard, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk to create the spice rub.
2
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut along each side of the chicken drumstick bone to open up the meat, creating a butterfly shape. Score the skin a few times.
3
Place the butterflied drumsticks on an air fryer tray or baking sheet. Drizzle with oil and season generously on all sides with the spice rub, rubbing it into the meat.
4
Place the chicken in the air fryer skin-side down. Cook at 450°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the top starts to get a nice char.
5
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the ranch dip. In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning packet, mayonnaise, and milk. Whisk until smooth, adding more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
6
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and flip each piece over so it is skin-side up. Season the skin side with a little more of the spice rub.
7
Return the chicken to the air fryer on a lower rack and continue to cook until fully cooked through and the skin is crispy.

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Butterfly with a sharp knife on a cutting board, being careful near the bone—don't cut all the way through. A clean cut prevents shredding.
Press the butterflied drumstick skin-side up with the heel of your hand to flatten completely and ensure even contact with the pan or grill.
Rub the spice mixture on both sides, pressing it in gently so it adheres. Let sit 10–15 minutes before cooking to deepen flavor.
Don't move the drumstick for the first 4–5 minutes on the stovetop—letting it sit undisturbed builds a golden crust.

Substitutions

Smoked paprika → sweet paprika (milder, less smoky flavor)
Garlic powder + onion powder → 2 tsp garlic-herb seasoning blend (convenience, slightly different profile)
Chili powder → cayenne or ancho powder (cayenne is hotter; ancho is sweeter)
Cooking oil → olive oil or butter (both work; butter adds richness)

Storage & make-ahead

Store cooked drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Common Questions

How do you butterfly chicken drumsticks?

Cut along both sides of the bone with a sharp knife, then press the drumstick flat so it opens like a butterfly. This exposes more surface area and allows even cooking.

What temperature should butterflied chicken drumsticks reach?

Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part, away from bone. Flattened drumsticks typically cook in 12–15 minutes.

Can you make the spice rub ahead of time?

Yes. Mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, mustard, and chili powder in advance and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

What cooking method works best for butterflied drumsticks?

Pan-searing, grilling, or baking all work well. The flattened shape cooks quickly and browns evenly, especially over medium-high heat.

Can you substitute the spice rub ingredients?

Yes. Use any combination of smoked or sweet paprika, cumin, cayenne, oregano, or black garlic. The ratio stays the same—about 2 tbsp total seasoning per 4 drumsticks.