Easy Baked Chicken Drumsticks
These budget-friendly and kid-approved chicken drumsticks are simple to prepare. Just season and bake for tender, flavorful drumsticks perfect for picnics, parties, or a simple family dinner. This no-fuss recipe transforms an affordable cut of meat into a meal that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Wire Rack
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 3 pounds chicken drumsticks approximately 8-10 pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika smoked paprika adds extra depth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar optional, for a touch of sweetness
Instructions
- Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures crispy skin. If you have time, let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking for more even baking.
- In a small bowl, combine all dry seasonings: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).
- Drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. Then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over all sides, rubbing it in gently. For deeper flavor penetration, use your fingers to carefully lift the skin and apply some seasoning directly to the meat underneath.
- For flavor that penetrates to the bone, cover the seasoned drumsticks and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 8 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
- Arrange the drumsticks on the prepared rack, leaving at least 1 inch between pieces. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. If you'd like extra caramelization, brush with honey or brown sugar during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Notes
For a healthier version, you can remove the skin before eating (reduces calories by approximately 50 per drumstick), use a salt-free herb blend with lemon for flavor (reduces sodium by 75%), substitute part of the oil with Greek yogurt for a tenderizing marinade, or add turmeric to the spice blend for anti-inflammatory benefits.
Avoid common mistakes: don't overcrowd the pan, don't skip drying the chicken, allow the chicken to come to room temperature before cooking, use a meat thermometer, and bake at the recommended temperature for crispy skin.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. For best reheating results, use a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes rather than a microwave.
Nutrition
Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 27gFat: 17gSodium: 380mgPotassium: 320mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g
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