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Baked Chicken Drumsticks: The Recipe to Make Them Tasty and Juicy
When it comes to comfort food that’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor, few dishes can rival baked chicken drumsticks. This affordable cut of meat becomes irresistible when cooked just right—crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside. The best part? You don’t need a deep fryer or complicated ingredients to make them taste amazing.
This easy recipe will show you how to make perfectly baked chicken drumsticks that are bursting with flavor and incredibly moist, using a few pantry staples and smart cooking techniques.
🍗 Why You’ll Love These Baked Chicken Drumsticks
- ✅ No frying required—healthier and cleaner
- ✅ Crispy skin and juicy meat every time
- ✅ Family-friendly and budget-friendly
- ✅ Easy to prepare with everyday ingredients
- ✅ Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep
🛒 Ingredients
- 8–10 chicken drumsticks, skin-on and bone-in
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Optional: a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper for heat
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting crispy skin.
- Place the drumsticks in a large bowl or zip-top bag.
Step 2: Season Well
- Drizzle the olive oil over the drumsticks.
- In a small bowl, mix together all the spices.
- Sprinkle the spice mix over the chicken and toss well to coat each drumstick evenly.
Step 3: Let It Rest (Optional but Recommended)
- For even more flavor, cover and refrigerate the seasoned chicken for 30 minutes to overnight. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top (if you have one—this helps the heat circulate for extra crispiness).
- Arrange the drumsticks on the rack in a single layer.
- Bake for 35–45 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep the juices inside.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired.
