Chicken Drumsticks Recipe is a simple, tasty way to enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken with a crispy skin. The drumsticks get marinated in a blend of spices and then baked or grilled until perfectly cooked. They’re great for any day of the week because they’re easy to prepare and always satisfying.
I love making this recipe when I want a no-fuss meal that everyone will enjoy. The spices soak into the chicken and give it a nice kick without being too strong. Sometimes I add a little honey or soy sauce to the marinade to give the drumsticks a sweet and slightly sticky finish that my family can’t get enough of.
My favorite way to serve chicken drumsticks is with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. They’re also perfect for a casual dinner or outdoor barbecue with friends. Whenever I make these drumsticks, they disappear fast, so I know they’re a hit almost every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Drumsticks: These are perfect for baking because they stay juicy and flavorful. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat with a bit more fat.
Olive Oil: It helps the spices stick and gives a nice texture. If you don’t have olive oil, vegetable or avocado oil works well too.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a mild smoky flavor. If you’re out, regular paprika or a bit of cumin makes a good swap. Garlic and onion powder bring depth without extra chopping.
Chili Flakes: These add heat but are optional. If you don’t like spice, just leave them out or add a pinch of black pepper instead.
Honey or Maple Syrup: This is optional but adds a delicious glaze and helps crisping. You can leave it out for a less sweet version.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley is used for garnish and fresh pop. Thyme adds earthiness, but rosemary or oregano could work nicely too.
How Do You Get Crispy, Juicy Baked Drumsticks?
Drying the chicken is the first key step. Pat them well with paper towels to remove moisture. This helps the skin get crispy instead of steaming.
Next, coat the drumsticks evenly with oil and spices. Tossing them in a bowl ensures every bit is covered.
- Arrange in a single layer with space between pieces to allow heat circulation.
- Bake at a high temperature (425°F/220°C) for crispy skin.
- Turn drumsticks halfway to brown all sides evenly.
- Check the internal temp; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
- Rest for 5 minutes after baking; this helps juices redistribute for tender meat.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Rimmed baking sheet or baking dish – it holds the drumsticks and catches any drips for easy cleanup.
- Mixing bowl – perfect for tossing the chicken with oil and spices to coat evenly.
- Tongs or a spatula – makes turning the drumsticks halfway easy without making a mess.
- Meat thermometer – helps you check the chicken’s temperature to ensure it’s safe and juicy.
- Paper towels – important for drying the drumsticks to get crispy skin.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding lemon zest and juice to the marinade for a fresh, bright flavor that cuts through the richness.
- Swap smoked paprika for curry powder or Cajun seasoning for a different spice profile you might enjoy.
- Mix in grated Parmesan with the spices for a cheesy crust that adds extra taste and texture.
- Add chopped rosemary or basil instead of thyme for a different herb aroma and flavor punch.
Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 10 chicken drumsticks
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh sprigs (optional)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for a slight glaze)
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35 to 40 minutes to bake. Allow an extra 5 minutes at the end for resting. So, all together, plan for roughly 50 to 55 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Chicken:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats, pat the chicken drumsticks dry using paper towels. Getting rid of extra moisture helps the skin crisp up nicely during baking.
2. Make the Seasoning and Coat the Drumsticks:
In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili flakes if you’re using them. Once combined, add the drumsticks and toss them well so every piece gets coated with the tasty spice mix.
3. Bake the Drumsticks:
Place the seasoned drumsticks in a single layer on a baking dish or rimmed baking sheet. Make sure they have space around them for even cooking. If you’d like, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the top for a light glaze that gives a lovely caramelized finish.
Bake in the oven for about 35 to 40 minutes. Turn the drumsticks halfway through baking to ensure they brown evenly. Check they’re done by making sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crisp and golden.
4. Rest and Garnish:
After baking, let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes to let juicy flavors settle in. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and thyme on top for a fresh, bright finish.
Enjoy your flavorful, crispy baked chicken drumsticks!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Drumsticks?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat them dry well after thawing to ensure crispy skin.
Can I Prepare the Drumsticks Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the drumsticks in the seasoning mixture for up to 24 hours in the fridge to boost flavor. When ready, bake as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to crisp the skin again.
What Can I Serve with These Drumsticks?
They’re delicious alongside roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad. The honey glaze pairs especially well with slightly sweet or tangy sides.