Introduction
Chicken drumsticks are a family favorite thanks to their juicy, flavorful meat and versatility. Whether baked, grilled, or pan-seared, they’re easy to prepare and pair well with countless marinades and seasonings. This recipe gives you crispy, golden-brown drumsticks coated in a savory seasoning blend, making them perfect for dinner, parties, or even meal prep. They’re simple to make, affordable, and guaranteed to satisfy both kids and adults.
Ingredients
10 chicken drumsticks, skin-on
2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
½ tsp dried thyme (or oregano)
½ tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
Optional Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges
Instructions
Prep the chicken:
Pat drumsticks dry with paper towels (this helps them crisp).
Place in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat.
Season:
Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and chili powder in a small bowl.
Sprinkle over chicken and rub in evenly.
Bake:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway, until skin is crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest and serve:
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Description
These Delicious Chicken Drumsticks are juicy on the inside with perfectly crisp, flavorful skin on the outside. The spice blend adds just the right balance of savory, smoky, and slightly spicy notes, making every bite irresistible. They’re hearty enough to serve as a main dish yet simple enough for a quick weeknight meal.
Tips and Variations
Cooking methods: Grill for a smoky flavor, air-fry for extra crispiness, or pan-sear before finishing in the oven.
Marinade: For deeper flavor, marinate drumsticks in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs for at least 1 hour.
Spice variations: Use Cajun seasoning, BBQ rub, or curry powder for different flavor profiles.
Crispier skin: Place drumsticks on a wire rack set over the baking sheet to let hot air circulate.
Serving ideas: Pair with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Correction
Some recipes skip drying the chicken or baking at a high temperature, which results in soggy skin. Properly drying and roasting at 400°F is key to achieving crispy, golden-brown drumsticks.
Enjoy
Serve these Delicious Chicken Drumsticks hot with your favorite sides. They make a fantastic dinner centerpiece, a party snack, or even a meal-prep option for the week ahead. Bite into the crispy skin, enjoy the juicy meat, and savor a dish that never fails to please!