Parmesan Ranch Baked Chicken Drumsticks
These drumsticks, coated in a parmesan and ranch seasoning mix and baked to crispy perfection, offer a simple, cheesy, and tangy dinner solution that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 40 minutes mins
Resting Time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 320 kcal
Baking Sheet
Wire Rack
Parchment Paper
- 8-10 chicken drumsticks approximately 2-2.5 pounds
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated or pre-grated
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix store-bought or homemade
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
Using paper towels, thoroughly pat the drumsticks dry to ensure crispy skin.
In a large bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Mix thoroughly.
Brush each drumstick with olive oil or melted butter. For extra tenderness, you can score the meat lightly with a knife, making 2-3 shallow cuts.
Roll each oiled drumstick in the Parmesan ranch mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
Place the coated drumsticks on the prepared wire rack, ensuring they don't touch each other. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.
Allow the drumsticks to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
For a thicker coating, let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes after the initial coating, then roll them in the mixture again.
Using a wire rack ensures 360-degree air circulation, resulting in crispier skin.
Avoid moving the drumsticks during the first 20 minutes of baking to ensure the coating stays on.
Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 28gFat: 22gSodium: 480mgFiber: 0.5gCalcium: 220mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Chicken, Drumsticks, Parmesan, Ranch, Baked Chicken