Oven-Roasted Chicken Drumsticks

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 40 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Looking for a simple yet satisfying dish? These oven-roasted chicken drumsticks hit the spot with minimal effort. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, they offer crispy skin and juicy meat in every bite.

Ingredients for Oven-Roasted Chicken Drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks are the star of this dish, providing a rich and savory taste. Their natural juiciness ensures a moist result, even if you overcook them slightly.

Olive oil helps in crisping up the skin while keeping the meat tender. It also acts as a binder for the spices.

Salt enhances the flavors and helps in achieving that irresistible crispy skin.

Black pepper adds a subtle heat, balancing the dish's savory notes.

Garlic powder infuses the chicken with a deep, aromatic flavor that permeates the meat.

Paprika gives a smoky touch and a beautiful color to the drumsticks.

Onion powder provides a mild sweetness that complements the garlic.

Dried thyme adds a hint of earthiness, making the dish feel more rounded.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crispy skin, elevate the drumsticks on a wire rack over the baking sheet.
  • Want more flavor? Marinate the drumsticks in the spice mixture for up to 24 hours in the fridge.
  • Check the drumsticks at the 30-minute mark to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

These drumsticks pair beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. For a more filling meal, consider serving them alongside mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. A side of coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What if I don't have paprika?
Smoked paprika or chili powder can be a good substitute, adding their own unique flavors.

Oven-Roasted Chicken Drumsticks Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the drumsticks start cooking right away, giving them that desired crispy skin.

Next, pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it allows the spices to adhere better and helps the skin become crispy.

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and dried thyme. Mix them well so that the flavors meld together.

Now, rub the spice mixture evenly over the drumsticks. Make sure each piece is well-coated. This is where the magic happens—the spices infuse the meat as it cooks.

Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This step not only prevents sticking but also makes cleaning up a breeze.

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and a golden brown, crispy skin. It's a good idea to use a meat thermometer to be sure.

Once done, let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick prep and minimal cleanup.
  • Perfectly crispy skin every time.
  • A versatile dish that pairs well with various sides.
  • Kid-friendly, yet sophisticated enough for adults.

Ingredients

8 chicken drumsticks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and dried thyme.
4. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the drumsticks.
5. Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
7. Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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