Get ready to discover the ultimate recipe for perfectly crispy and incredibly juicy Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks. This foolproof method delivers that irresistible golden-brown skin and tender, flavorful meat every single time. Forget complicated steps or fancy ingredients; this recipe is all about simple, powerful flavors and a technique that guarantees success. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner solution that your whole family will love, proving that delicious can also be incredibly easy.
Why This Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe Works
There are countless ways to cook chicken, but this recipe for oven-baked chicken drumsticks stands out for its simplicity and reliability. We focus on two key things: a high-heat baking method and a perfectly balanced seasoning blend. The high temperature ensures the chicken skin gets wonderfully crispy while locking in all the natural juices. The seasoning creates a savory crust that makes every bite a delight. It’s a foundational recipe that’s as perfect for a quick family meal as it is for entertaining guests.
The Simple Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You only need a handful of pantry staples to create the most delicious chicken drumsticks.
For the Chicken:
- Chicken Drumsticks: About 2 pounds of fresh, bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks.
- Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: Just enough to coat the chicken, helping the skin to crisp up beautifully.
For the Perfect Seasoning Blend:
- Smoked Paprika: For a beautiful color and a subtle smoky flavor.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a savory, aromatic depth.
- Onion Powder: Provides a foundational savory note.
- Dried Oregano: For a hint of earthy, herbaceous flavor.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, enhancing all the other flavors.
How to Make Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps for flawless results. The key is in the preparation and the high-heat baking process.
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange a wire rack inside a baking sheet. This setup allows hot air to circulate around the entire drumstick, which is crucial for crispy skin all over.
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Use paper towels to pat the chicken drumsticks completely dry. Removing excess moisture is one of the most important steps for achieving that perfectly crispy skin.
- Season Generously: In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Place the dry drumsticks in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat. Then, sprinkle the seasoning blend over the chicken, making sure each piece is evenly covered.
- Arrange on the Rack: Place the seasoned drumsticks on the wire rack, ensuring there is space between each one. Don’t let them touch! This spacing helps them cook evenly and become crispy.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. The most reliable way to check for doneness is with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the drumstick.
- Let It Rest: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and tender.
The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Skin (4 Essential Tips)
Everyone wants that satisfying crunch from crispy chicken skin. Here are the four non-negotiable tips to guarantee you get it every single time.
- Dry is Your Ally: As mentioned, patting the chicken completely dry with paper towels before seasoning is the single most effective trick. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
- Use a Wire Rack: Elevating the drumsticks on a wire rack allows the heat to circulate underneath, crisping the bottom skin instead of letting it get soggy in its own juices.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Give each drumstick its own space on the rack. Overcrowding the pan will cause the chicken to steam rather than roast, resulting in soft, pale skin.
- High Heat is Key: Baking at a high temperature like 400°F (200°C) is essential. It renders the fat in the skin quickly, making it deliciously crispy and golden.
Seasoning Variations to Try
While the base seasoning is fantastic, these Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks are a blank canvas. Try these simple variations:
- Spicy Cajun: Swap the paprika and oregano for a tablespoon of your favorite Cajun seasoning and a pinch of cayenne pepper for some extra kick.
- Lemon Herb: Replace the paprika with dried thyme and rosemary, and add the zest of one lemon to the seasoning blend for a bright, fresh flavor.
- Smoky BBQ: Add a teaspoon of brown sugar and a half teaspoon of cumin to the spice mix. In the last 10 minutes of baking, brush the drumsticks with your favorite BBQ sauce.
What to Serve with Chicken Drumsticks
These versatile drumsticks pair well with almost anything! For a classic comfort meal, serve them alongside some Crispy Roasted Cauliflower or a comforting bowl of Broccoli Potato Soup. They are also fantastic with a simple side salad or some freshly baked Amish White Bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store leftover chicken drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For the best results when reheating, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven or in an air fryer for 5-10 minutes, until warmed through and the skin has re-crisped.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most reliable way to know when chicken is cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the drumstick without touching the bone. It is safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
There are three keys to crispy skin: 1) Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels before seasoning. 2) Bake at a high heat (400°F / 200°C). 3) Use a wire rack on your baking sheet so hot air can circulate all around the drumstick.
No, you should not cover chicken drumsticks when baking them. Covering them will trap steam, which prevents the skin from getting brown and crispy. Always bake them uncovered for the best texture.
For the best results with crispy skin and juicy meat, you should bake chicken drumsticks at a high temperature of 400°F (200°C). This allows the skin to render and crisp up nicely while the inside stays moist.
More Delicious Chicken Recipes
If you enjoyed this simple recipe, you’ll love exploring other ways to prepare chicken. For another restaurant-quality meal, try our LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe. Or, for a classic Italian dish, you can’t go wrong with this elegant Chicken Francese.
Share Your Creation!
We are so excited for you to try this simple and delicious recipe for Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks! It’s a game-changer for busy weeknights. If you make it, please leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your favorite board on Pinterest!
Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks (The ONLY Recipe You Need)
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet.
- Pat the chicken drumsticks completely dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Place the drumsticks in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken and toss again until evenly coated.
- Arrange the seasoned drumsticks on the wire rack, making sure they are not touching.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes, until the skin is golden brown and crispy, and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Check for Doneness: The safest and most accurate way to ensure your chicken is cooked is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should always reach 165°F (74°C).
