The Best Homemade Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

These baked chicken drumsticks are a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. You’ll love how simple and delicious they turn out every time.

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—no fancy tricks needed, just perfect results.
Easy to customize with your favorite spices or sauces, making them a hit with picky eaters.
Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and less time scrubbing pans.

Recipe

Chicken drumsticks are a versatile and flavorful choice for a family meal or gathering. Baking them in the oven guarantees a crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender. This simple recipe requires minimal ingredients and is perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a quick, satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

8 chicken drumsticks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
In a small bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Brush each drumstick with olive oil, then generously coat them with the spice mixture.
Arrange the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes:

For extra flavor, marinate the drumsticks in the spice mixture and olive oil for 1-2 hours before baking. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Equipment:

Baking sheet, parchment paper, small bowl, brush

Time:

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 45 minutes

Cuisine:

American

Serving:

4 servings

Nutrition

Nutritional values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used. Below is an approximate breakdown per serving:

Calories: 210

Protein: 25g

Carbohydrates: 0g

Fat: 12g

Saturated Fat: 3g

Cholesterol: 85mg

Sodium: 320mg

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my homemade baked chicken drumsticks with simple side dishes like roasted veggies or creamy mashed potatoes. Don’t forget to whip up some flavorful dipping sauces, like honey mustard or garlic aioli, to take the meal up a notch. It’s all about complementing the crispy, tender drumsticks with textures and tastes that make every bite satisfying.

Side Dish Pairings

When you’re serving up crispy, golden baked chicken drumsticks, you’ll want sides that complement their rich flavor without stealing the spotlight. I love pairing them with roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts—they’re sweet, tender, and add a nice crunch. A simple garden salad with tangy vinaigrette is invigorating and balances the meal. For something heartier, mashed potatoes or creamy coleslaw work perfectly. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll whip up a cheesy corn casserole or garlic butter rice. These sides enhance the drumsticks’ savory taste while keeping the meal well-rounded. It’s all about finding what feels right for your table!

Flavorful Dipping Sauces

While sides are great for rounding out a meal, dipping sauces can take your baked chicken drumsticks to the next level. I love pairing mine with a tangy honey mustard—just mix Dijon, honey, and a splash of lemon juice. For a spicy kick, try sriracha mayo with a squeeze of lime. Barbecue sauce is a classic, but homemade beats store-bought every time. And don’t forget garlic aioli—creamy, garlicky, and perfect for dunking. These sauces add excitement to every bite, turning simple drumsticks into something special. Experiment with flavors, and you’ll never get bored!