Baked chicken drumsticks are tender, juicy, and beyond easy to make. Tossed in a simple yet delicious seasoning blend, this dish will be a staple in your household.
In my house, when we are short on time and brain bandwidth (which seems more and more regular these days), we whip up our favorite chicken recipe. We are so happy to share it with you because it's not only a breeze to make, but it's packed with flavor.
The great thing about this meal is that it goes with just about anything, and the preparation takes just a few minutes. When all else fails, easy baked chicken drumsticks it is! All you have to do is stick them in the oven for 45 minutes and an easy dinner you shall have.
For me, this recipe is all about the crispy skin. It's life! The key to getting your chicken crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside is patting your chicken dry before seasoning it to remove excess moisture, and cooking it at the right temperature.
If the allotted 40 to 45 minutes doesn't make your skin as crispy as you like, throw on the broiler for a minute or two to finalize – but be sure to keep an eye on it!
Done right, and your family will be fighting for the crispiest skin!
Ingredients
The great thing about baked chicken drumsticks is that you are likely to have most – if not all! – ingredients at home already.
You will need:
- Chicken drumsticks
- Olive Oil
- Smoked Paprika
- Salt
- Garlic Powder
- Black Pepper
- Chili Powder
- Sazón (optional)
How to Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Step 1: Preheat the oven and line a baking sheet with parchment paper and optional cooking rack.
Step 2: Clean the chicken and pat dry.
Step 3: Coat the chicken in olive oil in a large bowl or Ziplock bag.
Step 4: Add seasoning mixture to the chicken and coat evenly.
Step 5: Line the chicken on the cooking rack and place in the oven.
Step 6: Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy and the internal temperature reads 165 degrees.
Optional: Marinate the chicken in advanced for increased flavor!
How long do you bake chicken drumsticks?
We recommend baking chicken drumsticks for 40 to 45 minutes at 400 degrees F. However, what is more important than time is the meat's internal temperature.
Depending on the thickness of your drumsticks, you may need to bake them for a little longer. Look for golden, crispy skin and an internal temperature of 165 degrees F using a meat thermometer.
How long does baked chicken last in the refrigerator?
Once the chicken has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to a shallow airtight container. This meal will keep for four to five days in the fridge.
Can you freeze baked chicken drumsticks?
Of course! This is an awesome freezer meal. You can freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bags.
I like to keep mine in vacuum-sealed bags to preserve the freshness and avoid freezer burn.
Pro tip: Freeze in portioned out bags for busy weeknights!
Easy Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients
- 6 drumsticks (~2lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp Sazón (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and and set aside. Optional: use a cooking rack on top of the parchment paper for added air flow.
- Remove chicken from packaging, clean and pat dry. Place into a large Ziploc bag or large bowl.
- Add oil to the chicken and toss until coated.
- Combine dry seasonings in a bowl, then add to the chicken and toss until coated. Line drumsticks on the baking sheet.
- Place the chicken in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, turning halfway – about 20 minutes in – until the skin is crispy and golden, and the internal temperature reads 165 degrees or higher.
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