Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Name: Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 chicken drumsticks; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Family Meals

I absolutely love making Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks! The best part about this recipe is how simple it is to achieve that perfectly crispy skin without frying. Using the oven not only makes it healthier, but it also allows for easy cleanup. I typically marinate the drumsticks overnight, which infuses them with incredible flavor. This recipe has quickly become a go-to favorite for family dinners and gatherings, as everyone loves indulging in these delectable drummies bursting with seasonings.

Created by

Belinda Fraser

Last updated on 2026-02-28T04:09:35.225Z

When I first made these drumsticks, I experimented with different seasoning blends until I found the perfect mix of spices that everyone in my family loves. The key is to pat the chicken dry before applying the seasoning; it ensures that the skin comes out nice and crispy. I use a combination of paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of cayenne for the right kick!

One night, while prepping for a family gathering, I decided to try a new method of using a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. It turned out to be a game-changer—allowing the hot air to circulate around the chicken, which kept it juicy while achieving a signature crunch. Trust me; you’ll want to use this technique for other chicken recipes as well!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfectly crispy skin that rivals fried chicken
Juicy meat infused with flavorful spices
Healthy option that's easy to prepare and bake
Customizable seasoning to cater to your taste

Understanding the Marinade

Marinating the chicken drumsticks is a crucial step that truly elevates the flavor profile of this dish. The combination of olive oil and spices creates a slippery surface that helps the seasonings adhere better, allowing deeper flavor absorption. I recommend letting them soak overnight in the refrigerator. If you're short on time, 30 minutes will suffice, but longer marination guarantees a more robust taste. Just ensure the chicken is well-coated and covered for hygiene purposes.

If you're looking to customize the marinade, feel free to get creative! You can experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a fresh twist. Alternatively, incorporating a tablespoon of mustard or honey will add an extra layer of flavor and help to balance the spice if you choose to add cayenne pepper.

Perfecting Oven Baking Techniques

When baking chicken drumsticks, utilizing a wire rack is a game changer. Elevating the chicken allows the hot air to circulate evenly around the drumsticks, promoting crispy skin on all sides. If you don't have a wire rack, you can create a DIY version with crumpled aluminum foil. This technique also prevents the chicken from sitting in its own juices, which is essential for achieving that sought-after crunch.

The temperature setting is equally important. Preheating the oven to 425°F (220°C) creates an environment for a high, dry heat that crisps the exterior while keeping the meat juicy inside. If your drumsticks start to color too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil after about 25 minutes to slow down the browning process while allowing them to cook through.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for the ultimate crispy chicken experience!

Ingredients

8 chicken drumsticks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Be sure to let the chicken marinate for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your chicken drumsticks to crispy perfection.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Add the drumsticks and toss well to coat.

Marinate

For best results, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight.

Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and arrange the drumsticks on top. This allows the heat to circulate evenly around the chicken.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your crispy drumsticks!

These drumsticks are perfect served with a side of vegetables or your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra crispy skin, make sure to dry the chicken thoroughly with paper towels before seasoning. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet—spreading the drumsticks apart will help achieve that crunch!

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover drumsticks, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage, but be sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw completely in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps to retain the crispy skins, ensuring that your delicious drumsticks taste just as good as they did fresh out of the oven.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy drumsticks pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic touch, serve them with coleslaw and cornbread. Alternatively, a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can beautifully complement the richness of the chicken. Consider grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes for a hearty meal that's sure to satisfy.

For an extra kick, you might prepare a dipping sauce on the side. A mix of buffalo sauce and ranch dressing is popular, but feel free to go with a sweet chili sauce or homemade garlic aioli for something different. This adds a fun interactive element to your meal, allowing everyone to explore flavors as they enjoy the crispy delights.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking for the best results.

→ What can I serve with the chicken drumsticks?

These drumsticks pair well with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad.

→ Can I bake other chicken parts using this method?

Absolutely! Thighs and wings can also be cooked using the same seasoning and method.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.