Herb-Infused Baked Chicken Drumsticks

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 40 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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These Herb-Infused Baked Chicken Drumsticks offer a savory escape with just a handful of pantry staples. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, they bring aromatic herbs and a hint of smokiness to your table, delighting everyone from picky eaters to discerning gourmets.

Ingredients for Herb-Infused Baked Chicken Drumsticks

The base of our flavor comes from olive oil, which not only helps crisp up the skin but also carries the flavors of the herbs effectively. We use a blend of dried rosemary, thyme, and oregano — classic herbs that complement chicken beautifully. Garlic adds a punchy, aromatic depth, while salt and black pepper keep things seasoned perfectly. The smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness that rounds out the flavor profile.

Tips & Tricks

  • For even crispier skin, pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels before marinating.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature without cutting into the chicken.
  • Letting the chicken rest after baking keeps it juicy.

Serving Suggestions

These drumsticks pair wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving with a side of buttery mashed potatoes or a hearty grain like quinoa for added texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can! Use three times the amount of fresh herbs for the same intensity of flavor.
What if I don't have smoked paprika?
Regular paprika will work, or you can add a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
How do I store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Herb-Infused Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken will start cooking immediately once it's in the oven, leading to crispier skin. Next, grab a large bowl and combine the olive oil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix it well — this is your flavor-packed marinade.

Now, add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl. Using your hands or a pair of tongs, toss the drumsticks until they're thoroughly coated with the herb mixture. This will help ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easier and prevents the chicken from sticking. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer on the sheet, making sure they aren't touching. This allows the hot air to circulate around each piece, cooking them evenly.

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and set a timer for 35-40 minutes. You'll know they're done when the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crisped to your liking. Once cooked, let the drumsticks rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring moist, flavorful meat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Simple ingredients with big flavors.
  • Minimal prep time — just toss and bake.
  • Perfectly crispy skin without frying.
  • Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

8 chicken drumsticks
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp dried rosemary
1 tbsp dried thyme
1 tbsp dried oregano
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Add chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss until they are well coated with the herb mixture.
4. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.
6. Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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