Baked Chicken Drumsticks
This oven baked chicken drumsticks recipe is almost too easy. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this chicken is crispy and flavorful. It is an affordable family favorite dinner recipe that I make every week.
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Easy, protein-packed, and Joe loves them. What more needs to be said about this chicken drumstick recipe? Other faves of my infamous picky eater include these oven baked chicken wings with a homemade buffalo sauce and this honey mustard chicken. Browse through all of our chicken recipes for more inspiration.
Why you will love this recipe
You don’t need any fancy ingredients or equipment to make this simple chicken recipe. Just the drumsticks, oil, salt, and pepper. Throw them on a sheet pan, and you’re done.
Perfect for picky eaters! There is nothing not to like here. Just crispy chicken goodness. Oh, and it goes with any side dish you can imagine.
Can you say cheap? Chicken drumsticks are an affordable protein option to help keep grocery costs down.
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly. Bonus!
Ingredients
Find the complete ingredient list, with measurements, in the recipe card below.
- Chicken Drumsticks – There is something so good about skin-on chicken. Cheap and cheerful at its finest.
- Oil – This promotes crispy skin and helps the spices stick to the meat. I generally use olive oil.
- Salt and Pepper – Simple seasonings such as sea salt and black pepper are all you need.
Equipment
As usual, nothing fancy is needed.
- Sheet Pan – We use a large 18×13 pan for this recipe. You want to leave a little room between the pieces so they crisp up instead of steaming nso a small pan won’t work.
- Parchment Paper – This is a must for easy clean up. It is also perfect for collecting those yummy, crispy bits that melt from the chicken skin. The paper helps them from sticking to the pan.
With 57% thicker carbon steel, these durable oven trays are constructed from heavy-gauge carbon steel.
Instructions
Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom for the FULL recipe details.
Step 1
Start by preheating the oven to 425° and then line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2
Next, place the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, and pat them dry with paper towels as you go.
Expert Tip!
Patting the chicken dry is the key to golden, crispy skin. Removing the excess moisture prevents any steaming action and allows for maximum crispiness.
Step 3
Then, drizzle the oil over the drumsticks and massage it into the meat. This also helps to develop that golden, roasted color.
Step 4
Next, sprinkle both sides of the drumsticks with salt and pepper.
Step 5
Then arrange the pieces evenly on the baking sheet, skin-side down.
Place the baking sheet in the oven for 25 minutes, flip the drumsticks over, and bake for another 20 minutes.
Check that an internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part. You can use an instant-read thermometer.
Check out those crispy bits all around the drums. OMGGGGSSSHH so good.
Substitutions and recipe variations
This is a super basic recipe when it comes to seasonings, so there are a ton of ways you can customize the flavor with your favorite spices. General ideas include garlic powder and onion powder, and if you like a little more heat, add some cayenne pepper and/or smoked paprika.
Try a light dusting of Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy crust. Or try these baked Parmesan chicken tenders.
Brush with a little honey or maple syrup in the last 10 minutes for a lightly sweet glaze.
Serving suggestions
Our go-to pairings are these roasted rosemary potatoes and our favorite simple lettuce salad. It’s pretty much Joe’s fave meal.
Dip those beauties in some spicy dipping sauce or ranch dressing.
FAQS
No need. Baking uncovered actually helps the skin crisp up.
Absolutely. Carrots, onions, and potatoes roast nicely alongside the drumsticks.
Storage tips
To Store: Place any leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. You could also shred the meat using a knife and fork and store it in the fridge. We love using it in this creamy curry chicken salad.
To Reheat: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes to keep the skin from getting soggy.
More chicken recipes
If you’ve tried these baked chicken drumsticks, please give me a rating and let me know how it turned out by leaving me a comment below. I’m always interested in feedback!
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Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients
- 10 chicken drumsticks *4-5 pounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Start by preheating the oven to 425° and then line a large baking sheet with parchment.
- Place the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, and pat them dry with paper towels as you go.
- Drizzle the oil over the drumsticks and massage it into the meat.
- Sprinkle both sides of the drumsticks with salt and pepper. Spread the pieces evenly on the baking sheet and arrange them with the skin side down.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven for 25 minutes, flip the drumsticks over, and bake for another 20 minutes.
- Enjoy warm.