Baked chicken drumsticks are like the superhero of weeknight dinners—quick to make, packed with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. Imagine sinking your teeth into crispy, golden skin that gives way to tender, juicy meat underneath. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around the dinner table faster than you can say “Where’s the hot sauce?”
I remember the first time I made baked chicken drumsticks for my family. My kids thought I had become a gourmet chef overnight! Little did they know, it was just a simple recipe that made me look good. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends, these drumsticks guarantee you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These baked chicken drumsticks are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for any night of the week
- The flavor profile is phenomenal, with a crispy exterior and savory interior that will leave you craving more
- Visually, they’re a feast for the eyes; golden brown and inviting on any plate
- Versatile enough to pair with various sides or sauces, these drumsticks fit any occasion seamlessly
I still chuckle when I think about how my kids devoured these drumsticks at our last backyard barbecue. Their sticky fingers and happy faces said it all!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Chicken Drumsticks: Choose fresh or thawed drumsticks for the best texture and flavor.
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Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps achieve that delightful crispiness.
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Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning that infuses amazing flavor throughout.
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Paprika: Use smoked paprika if you love that extra layer of depth in flavor.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all other flavors in the dish.
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Dried Herbs (like oregano or thyme): These add an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with chicken.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures crispy skin while keeping the meat tender inside.
Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Season Those Drumsticks: In a large bowl, toss your chicken drumsticks with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and dried herbs until well coated. The oil helps all those spices stick beautifully.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t touching; we want them crispy all around!
Bake Away!: Bake for 35-40 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are golden brown. Keep an eye on them; oven temperatures can vary!
Let Them Rest: Once done, remove from oven and let rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute for maximum juiciness.
Now you’re ready to dig into these mouthwatering baked chicken drumsticks! Serve them up with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw for an unforgettable meal. Enjoy every bite—and don’t forget the napkins!
You Must Know
- Baked chicken drumsticks are not just easy; they transform any weeknight into a feast
- The crispy skin, juicy meat, and tantalizing aroma will wow your family and friends
- Plus, they’re a cinch to customize, turning leftovers into delicious meals
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken drumsticks for at least an hour. Preheat the oven to 425°F for crispy skin, then bake for about 40-45 minutes, turning halfway through.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out spices or add hot sauce for heat. Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist that elevates the dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked chicken drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to regain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect baked chicken drumsticks, ensure they’re patted dry before seasoning
- This helps achieve that coveted crispiness while baking
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F
- Don’t skip resting them after baking!
My first attempt at baked chicken drumsticks resulted in family raving about my “secret recipe,” which was really just salt and pepper!
FAQ
How do I know when baked chicken drumsticks are done?
Check with a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and baking for best results.
What sides pair well with baked chicken drumsticks?
Roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes complement the flavors perfectly and round out the meal.
Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Baked chicken drumsticks are the ultimate weeknight dinner solution, offering a delightful combination of crispy skin and juicy meat. This simple yet flavorful recipe will impress your family and friends, making it perfect for busy evenings or casual gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Serve them with your favorite sides for a satisfying feast that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray lightly with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine chicken drumsticks, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and oregano. Toss until evenly coated.
- Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they aren't touching.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and they are golden brown.
- Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 drumsticks (170g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
