Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Name: Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 chicken drumsticks; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Classics

I can't get enough of these crispy oven baked chicken drumsticks! There's something magical about how the skin turns golden and crunchy while the meat inside stays juicy and tender. My family loves this dish, and it quickly becomes the star of our weeknight dinners. The best part? They're super simple to make and take minimal effort. With just a handful of spices and a little patience, you can whip up the perfect batch of chicken drumsticks that everyone will rave about.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:25:36.547Z

When I first attempted to make crispy chicken drumsticks, I was amazed at how a few simple techniques could transform basic ingredients into something remarkable. I discovered that a dry brine not only seasons the meat but also helps render the fat in the skin, giving you that coveted crispiness without deep frying. The aroma that filled my kitchen while these baked was nothing short of inviting, drawing my family in the moment they began cooking.

After some tweaks to the spice blend, I landed on a combination that balanced heat and flavor beautifully. I also learned to let the chicken rest post-baking; this allows the juices to redistribute and makes each bite even more succulent. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously crispy skin that rivals fried options
Juicy meat packed with flavor thanks to the brine
Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep

Crispy Skin Magic

Achieving the perfect crispy skin on chicken drumsticks is all about the preparation and cooking method. Start by ensuring the chicken is completely dry before seasoning. This step helps the skin to become golden and crispy in the oven instead of steaming. Use paper towels judiciously, pressing gently but thoroughly to absorb any moisture left on the surface.

Baking at a high temperature, like 425°F (220°C), allows the fat in the skin to render and crisp up beautifully. If you notice the skin isn't as crispy as you'd like toward the end of the cooking time, you can switch to broil for a few minutes. Just keep a close eye on it—broiling can turn perfectly crispy to burnt in seconds!

Flavorful Spice Blend

The combination of spices in this recipe provides depth to the flavor profile of the drumsticks. The garlic and onion powder contribute aromatic notes that enhance the rich taste of the chicken. Paprika adds a subtle sweetness and a vibrant color, making each piece visually appealing. You can easily adjust the spice levels to suit your taste; for instance, adding more cayenne pepper can ramp up the heat significantly.

If you want to create a different flavor profile, consider swapping out the paprika for smoked paprika for a barbecue-like taste or using a blend of Italian seasonings for a twist. Don’t hesitate to experiment; just make sure to balance out stronger flavors with complementary ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

For the Chicken

8 chicken drumsticks
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Make sure you have everything ready before proceeding to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to achieve perfectly crispy chicken drumsticks:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving crispy skin.

Prepare the Drumsticks

Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.

Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the drumsticks, ensuring they're well-coated.

Bake the Drumsticks

Place the seasoned drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, allow the drumsticks to rest for 5 minutes to let the juices redistribute. Serve hot with your favorite sides!

Enjoy your deliciously crispy chicken drumsticks!

Pro Tips

For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but keep a close eye to prevent burning!

Make-Ahead Tips

These drumsticks are perfect for meal prep! You can season them and marinate for up to 24 hours in the fridge, allowing the spices to deeply penetrate the meat. This not only boosts the flavor but also keeps the chicken tender. When ready to bake, simply remove them from the fridge, let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, and then cook as per the instructions.

If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to believe), they store well in the fridge in airtight containers for up to 3 days. I sometimes reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to refresh their crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy oven-baked chicken drumsticks can be paired with many sides for a complete meal. Classic options like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad complement the savory chicken beautifully. For a twist, serve them with a spicy sriracha mayo or honey mustard dipping sauce to enhance the flavor experience.

You could also turn leftovers into a delicious chicken salad or wrap. Shred the meat and toss it with your favorite dressing and crunchy vegetables for a quick and satisfying lunch option. This versatility makes the drumsticks not only a family favorite but also a great option for entertaining.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly.

→ What should I serve with chicken drumsticks?

They're great with sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad!

→ Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Cook the drumsticks in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.

→ Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?

Definitely! Marinating for a few hours or overnight can infuse the chicken with even more flavor.