Craving a delicious, hassle-free meal that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than these Simple Baked Chicken Drumsticks! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a mouthwatering dish that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Read on to discover how to make these flavorful drumsticks that are not only easy to prepare but also irresistibly tasty!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help the chicken drumsticks become crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the chicken drumsticks. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important for achieving a crispy skin.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture until well combined.
- Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl with the seasoning mixture. Use your hands or tongs to coat each drumstick evenly with the oil and spice mixture. Make sure all sides are covered for maximum flavor.
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet if you have one; this allows the heat to circulate around the chicken, promoting even cooking.
- Arrange the coated chicken drumsticks on the wire rack or directly on the baking sheet, making sure they are spaced apart. This spacing helps them cook evenly and become crispy.
- Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet with the chicken drumsticks in the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown and crispy. You can check for doneness by using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Halfway through the cooking time, you can flip the drumsticks to ensure they cook evenly on both sides. This step is optional but can enhance the crispiness.
- Once the chicken is done, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the drumsticks rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken.
- Serve the baked chicken drumsticks hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauces, sides, or salads.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken drumsticks for the best flavor and texture. If you can, buy organic or free-range chicken for a richer taste.
- Pat Dry for Crispy Skin: After rinsing the drumsticks, make sure to pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy skin.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Make sure each drumstick is well-coated with the olive oil and spice mixture to enhance the flavor. You can also experiment with additional spices like cayenne pepper or Italian herbs for a unique twist.
- Use a Wire Rack: If you have a wire rack, use it! Placing the drumsticks on a rack allows hot air to circulate around them, resulting in even cooking and extra crispiness.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the drumsticks as they bake. Ovens can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended cooking time. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Let Them Rest: After baking, let the drumsticks rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken even more succulent.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Elevate your meal by serving the drumsticks with a variety of dipping sauces, such as barbecue sauce, ranch, or honey mustard. They also pair wonderfully with sides like coleslaw or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 120mg
