Description
This Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks recipe is a simple, flavorful, and crispy way to enjoy juicy chicken with a blend of aromatic spices. Perfectly oven-baked to golden perfection, these drumsticks combine garlic, paprika, oregano, and a hint of cayenne for a delicious and easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Drumsticks:
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks (about 10-12 pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if available to allow air circulation for crispier skin.
- Pat Dry: Use paper towels to pat the chicken drumsticks dry, which helps achieve a crispy skin when baking.
- Coat with Oil: In a large bowl, toss the drumsticks with 2 tablespoons of olive oil until they are evenly coated, which helps the seasoning stick and the skin to crisp up.
- Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using, creating a flavorful spice blend.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle the mixed seasonings over the oiled drumsticks and toss well to coat each piece evenly.
- Arrange on Rack: Place the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared wire rack or directly on the baking sheet, spacing them apart to ensure even cooking and crisping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown, flipping halfway through for even browning.
- Rest: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices and finish cooking.
- Enjoy: Serve hot with your favorite sides, dipping sauces, or fresh salads for a complete meal.
Notes
- Patting the drumsticks dry before oiling and seasoning helps to get crispy skin.
- Using a wire rack allows air to circulate for more even cooking and crispier skin.
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice heat level.
- Internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Resting the chicken before serving helps keep it juicy and tender.
