Oven-Baked Crispy Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients (Serves 6)
For the Chicken
- 12 chicken drumsticks (about 3 lbs / 1.4 kg)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Optional Garlic Butter Glaze
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top for extra crispy skin.
2. Season the Chicken
- Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels.
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Toss the drumsticks until evenly coated.
3. Bake
- Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer on the prepared rack.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
4. Add the Garlic Butter
- Mix the melted butter with the minced garlic and parsley.
- Brush over the hot drumsticks during the last 5 minutes of baking or immediately after removing them from the oven.
5. Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve with roasted potatoes, coleslaw, steamed vegetables, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad.
Prep Time
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Cook: 45 minutes
- Total: 55 minutes
Servings
6 servings
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 520 mg |
Description
These Oven-Baked Crispy Chicken Drumsticks are seasoned with a savory blend of garlic, paprika, herbs, and spices, then roasted until the skin is irresistibly crispy and the meat is tender and juicy. Finished with a simple garlic butter glaze and fresh parsley, they’re an easy, budget-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights, family meals, or game-day gatherings.
