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Easy Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe: Crisp and Juicy

Easy Baked Chicken Drumsticks

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These simple, high-heat roasted chicken drumsticks deliver a perfect balance of crispy, golden skin and succulent, tender meat. By swapping traditional liquid marinades for a direct spice paste, this recipe ensures maximum flavor in every bite without the need for advance planning. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe uses pantry staples to create a reliable, restaurant-quality meal that is both foolproof and satisfying for the whole family.

  • Total Time: 50
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 skin-on chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper until a thick paste forms.
  3. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
  4. Slather the seasoning paste generously over each drumstick, ensuring an even coat.
  5. Arrange the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
  6. Roast for 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  7. Use the rendered pan juices to baste the drumsticks before serving.

Notes

  • Always pat the chicken skin completely dry with paper towels before applying the oil paste to ensure optimal crispiness.
  • Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to allow for proper airflow around the drumsticks.
  • Author: Elsa
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 40
  • Category: Baked Chicken
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American