Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks

If you’re looking for an easy, no-fuss dinner that’s full of flavor, these Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks are the answer! Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and seasoned to perfection, they’re the kind of meal that makes everyone around the table smile. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner or at a weekend gathering, they’re sure to impress. And the best part? They come together in no time and require minimal effort!

Why You’ll Love Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Simple and Straightforward

No complicated ingredients, no fancy techniques—just a handful of pantry staples and a little bit of love. This is a dish that even beginner cooks can tackle with ease.

Perfectly Crispy Skin

The skin gets wonderfully crispy in the oven, giving you that irresistible crunch with every bite. If you’re a fan of crispy chicken, you’ll be hooked on these drumsticks.

Juicy and Tender Inside

While the skin crisps up, the meat stays juicy and tender. There’s nothing worse than dry chicken, and with these drumsticks, you won’t have to worry about that!

Customizable

Want a little extra flavor? You can mix up the seasonings to match your taste—whether it’s spicy, smoky, or herbaceous, you’re in control. Plus, these drumsticks are great for meal prep!

Ingredients

These are the basic ingredients you’ll need for perfect Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks:

• Chicken Drumsticks: The star of the show! Choose fresh drumsticks with skin on for that delicious crispiness.
• Olive Oil: Helps the skin get golden and crispy while keeping the meat juicy.
• Garlic Powder: Adds that wonderful savory depth of flavor.
• Onion Powder: A classic seasoning that enhances the overall taste.
• Paprika: This adds a slight smokiness and beautiful color to the skin.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors and balancing the dish.
• Optional Seasonings: You can add cayenne pepper for heat, dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for an herbal twist, or brown sugar for a subtle sweetness.

(Note: Exact measurements are included in the recipe card below!)

Instructions

Here’s how you can easily make these crispy, juicy drumsticks:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will help crisp up the skin and cook the drumsticks to perfection.

Step 2: Prepare the Drumsticks

Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This is a key step for getting crispy skin—moisture is the enemy! Once dry, drizzle the drumsticks with olive oil and rub it all over them.

Step 3: Season

In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the drumsticks, making sure each one gets coated. For extra flavor, you can also add your choice of optional seasonings.

Step 4: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Place the seasoned drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Make sure they’re spaced out evenly so that they cook properly and crisp up. No overcrowding!

Step 5: Bake

Bake the drumsticks in the preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through the cooking time for even crispiness on all sides.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the drumsticks are done, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps lock in all the juices. Serve them with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 500mg
Total Carbohydrates: 1g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 28g
Vitamin A: 6%
Vitamin C: 0%
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 10%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
Total Time: 40-50 minutes

How to Serve Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks

• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair these drumsticks with roasted veggies like carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts for a hearty meal.
• On a Salad: For a lighter option, serve the drumsticks on a bed of fresh greens with your favorite salad dressing.
• With Rice or Quinoa: For a complete dinner, serve them with a side of rice, quinoa, or couscous. A simple side of mashed potatoes also works wonders!
• Dipped in Sauce: Try them with a side of barbecue sauce, ranch, or honey mustard for dipping.

Additional Tips

• Pat Dry: Always make sure to pat your chicken dry before seasoning. This helps achieve that crispy skin everyone loves.
• Resting Time: Let your drumsticks rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
• Meal Prep: These drumsticks make great leftovers! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Extra Crispy: If you want even crispier skin, you can broil the drumsticks for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs or breasts instead of drumsticks?
A1: Yes, you can use chicken thighs or breasts. However, cooking times may vary. Thighs will take a little longer, while breasts may cook faster, so be sure to check for doneness.

Q2: Can I make these drumsticks ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can bake the drumsticks ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and reheat them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: Can I freeze the drumsticks?
A3: Yes! You can freeze the cooked drumsticks for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

Q4: What if I don’t have olive oil?
A4: You can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil, melted butter, or even coconut oil if you prefer.

Q5: Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
A5: Boneless chicken works too! The cooking time will be shorter, so check for doneness at around 25-30 minutes.

Q6: How do I check if the drumsticks are done?
A6: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees the chicken is fully cooked.

Q7: Can I add different seasonings?
A7: Of course! Feel free to mix up the spices. You can try adding cumin, chili powder, or even a little lemon zest for a different flavor profile.

Q8: Do I need to flip the drumsticks?
A8: Flipping halfway through helps ensure the drumsticks cook evenly and get crispy all around.

Q9: Can I make these drumsticks on a grill?
A9: Yes, you can grill them too! Preheat your grill and cook the drumsticks over medium heat for about 30 minutes, turning occasionally.

Q10: Can I make this recipe without paprika?
A10: Yes! If you don’t have paprika, you can skip it or substitute it with another spice like smoked paprika, chili powder, or even a bit of cayenne pepper for heat.

Conclusion

These Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks are simple, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Crispy skin, juicy meat, and the ease of making them make this recipe a keeper in your weeknight dinner rotation. Plus, they’re so versatile—you can pair them with just about anything. Try them tonight, and get ready to fall in love with how easy and delicious homemade chicken drumsticks can be!

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