There’s nothing quite like the smell of baked chicken drumsticks wafting through your home. The crispy skin, tender meat, and savory aroma create an irresistible invitation to gather around the table. Trust me, when you serve these golden delights, everyone will come running faster than a toddler on a sugar high.
I still remember the first time I made these baked chicken drumsticks for my family. It was a chaotic weeknight, and I was frazzled. But as the chicken cooked, filling the house with that mouthwatering scent, my kids transformed from bickering monsters to eager little angels, ready to devour dinner. You’ll want to save this recipe for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a potluck that needs some serious flavor!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- You’ll love how easy it is to prepare baked chicken drumsticks in the oven
- The flavor profile is rich and savory with just the right amount of spice
- They look stunning on a platter with their golden-brown hue
- Plus, they’re versatile enough for any side dish pairing or sauce dipping!
I once served these at a family gathering and received rave reviews from everyone!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Chicken Drumsticks: Aim for about 10-12 drumsticks; they are perfect for baking and easy to handle.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for a richer flavor that enhances the crispy texture.
Garlic Powder: Fresh garlic is great, but garlic powder adds a convenient punch of flavor without the hassle.
Paprika: Choose smoked paprika for depth or sweet paprika for a milder taste—your call!
Salt & Pepper: Season generously; they are essential for bringing out all those fabulous flavors.
Herbs (Thyme or Oregano): Fresh or dried herbs elevate the dish; choose whatever you have on hand.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Oven and Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
Season Those Drumsticks: In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over your chicken drumsticks. Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and herbs. Toss them until well-coated.
Arrange for Success: Place the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Give them some space; they don’t like being crowded!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are golden brown.
Crisp Them Up!: For an extra crispy finish, broil them on high for an additional 3-5 minutes—keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
Savor The Moment!: Let them rest for five minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture—no one likes dry chicken! Enjoy every juicy bite.
There you have it—a straightforward guide to making baked chicken drumsticks in the oven! Now get ready to impress your friends and family with this fantastic dish that’s bursting with flavor and personality!
You Must Know
- Baked chicken drumsticks oven provides a crispy exterior with juicy tenderness inside
- This simple dish can easily become the star of any meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings
- The aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly baked chicken drumsticks oven, season your chicken first, then preheat your oven to 425°F. Start baking them skin-side up to get that crispy texture everyone craves.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to mix up the seasoning! Swap out paprika for curry powder or add honey for a sweet twist. These little changes can elevate your dish dramatically.
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 to retain crispiness and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always pat the drumsticks dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy skin
- Consider using a wire rack over your baking sheet to allow airflow, promoting even cooking
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each piece space for optimal crispiness
Cooking these baked chicken drumsticks was a game-changer for my family dinners; they still rave about it every time I make them!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks?
Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed before seasoning and baking for even cooking.
How long do I bake chicken drumsticks?
Bake them for 35-45 minutes, depending on their size, until they reach 165°F internally.
What sides pair well with baked chicken drumsticks oven?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad make excellent accompaniments.
Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Baked chicken drumsticks are the ultimate comfort food, blending crispy skin with tender, juicy meat. This easy oven-baked recipe fills your home with mouthwatering aromas that will have everyone rushing to the dinner table. Perfect for weeknight meals or special gatherings, these flavorful drumsticks pair beautifully with a variety of sides, making them a versatile dish for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 10–12 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme or oregano
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks. Add garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and herbs; toss until well-coated.
- Place the seasoned drumsticks on the lined baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For extra crispiness, broil on high for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 drumsticks (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
