Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks

by

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key for achieving crispy skin.
  2. Prepare the Drumsticks: Rinse the chicken drumsticks under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as moisture can prevent the skin from getting crispy.
  3. Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the drumsticks with olive oil, ensuring they are well coated. This helps the spice rub adhere to the chicken and promotes browning.

Step 2: Create the Spice Rub

  1. Mix the Spices: In a separate bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and baking powder. Mix well until the spices are evenly distributed.
  2. Coat the Drumsticks: Sprinkle the spice mixture over the oiled drumsticks. Toss the drumsticks in the bowl until they are thoroughly coated with the spice rub.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

  1. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. The rack allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, promoting even cooking and crispiness.
  2. Arrange the Drumsticks: Place the seasoned drumsticks on the wire rack, making sure they are spaced apart. This prevents steaming and ensures they get crispy all around.
  3. Bake: Bake the drumsticks in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), and the skin is crispy and golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil on high for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the chicken drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them even juicier.
  2. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the crispy chicken drumsticks with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or honey mustard. Pair them with sides such as coleslaw, potato wedges, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Dry the Chicken Well: Ensuring the chicken is dry before applying oil and seasoning helps achieve a crispy texture.
  • Use a Wire Rack: Cooking the chicken on a wire rack prevents moisture from collecting underneath, resulting in better crispiness.
  • Don’t Crowd the Pan: Ensure there’s enough space between the drumsticks on the rack to allow for even cooking and airflow.
  • Marinate for More Flavor: For deeper flavor, consider marinating the drumsticks in the spice rub (mixed with olive oil) for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Variations to Try

  • Spicy BBQ Drumsticks: Brush the drumsticks with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes of baking for a sweet and tangy glaze.
  • Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce and sesame oil to the marinade and sprinkle with sesame seeds after baking for an Asian twist.
  • Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme into the spice rub for an aromatic flavor.

Conclusion

These Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks are sure to be a hit at any gathering! With their flavorful seasoning and satisfying crunch, they are a great option for a hearty meal or a fun finger food for parties. The best part? You can enjoy all the crispy goodness without the guilt of frying. Dive in and savor each delicious bite!

Feel free to adjust the spice levels and serving ideas to suit your taste! Enjoy your cooking!

2 of 2Next

Leave a Comment