Let me tell you, there’s something so comforting about easy oven baked chicken drumsticks. I remember the first time I made them; it was a busy weeknight, and I needed a meal that was quick and satisfying. I tossed those drumsticks in my favorite spices, threw them in the oven, and just like that, dinner was on its way! The aroma filling my kitchen was irresistible, and the best part? My family loved them! They’re juicy, crispy, and oh-so-flavorful. Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with any side dish. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a go-to in your home, too!
Ingredients List
- 8 chicken drumsticks: Look for fresh or thawed drumsticks for the best flavor and texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps the spices stick and adds a lovely richness to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must for that savory, aromatic kick that makes chicken sing!
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: It adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: This gives a beautiful color and a gentle smokiness—yum!
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the amazing flavors in your chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just the right amount to add a little heat without overpowering the dish.
How to Prepare Easy Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Making these easy oven baked chicken drumsticks is a breeze, and I promise you’ll have them on the table in no time! The key is all in the prep and timing, so let’s dive in step by step.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: First, set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is what gives the drumsticks that crispy skin we all crave.
- Mix the spices: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. It’s like a flavor party waiting to happen!
- Coat the chicken: Take each chicken drumstick and roll it in the spice mixture until it’s well coated. Don’t rush this step—getting that seasoning on every inch is what makes these drumsticks so delicious!
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the drumsticks on the sheet, making sure they’re spaced out enough for the heat to circulate around them.
- Bake: Pop those beauties into the preheated oven and let them bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and about 5 minutes before the time’s up, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You’re aiming for 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re perfectly cooked.
- Let them rest: Once they reach that magical temperature, take them out and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy before diving in!
And there you have it! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have golden, crispy chicken drumsticks that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Deliciously crispy skin that you just can’t resist.
- Packed with flavor from simple spices you probably already have!
- A healthy protein source that’s gluten-free and satisfying.
- Versatile—pair with any side dish for a complete meal!
Tips for Success
To really elevate your easy oven baked chicken drumsticks, consider marinating them for a few hours—or even overnight! This step infuses them with flavor and makes them extra juicy. Just toss them in the spice mixture with the olive oil and let them soak up all those delicious flavors. Also, don’t skip the parchment paper; it makes cleanup a breeze and helps the skin crisp up beautifully.
When baking, keep an eye on the time, but remember that every oven is different. If you like your drumsticks extra crispy, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch them closely so they don’t burn. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some dried herbs or a splash of lemon juice to the spice mix for a fresh twist! Enjoy experimenting!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information for these easy oven baked chicken drumsticks. Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so it’s not always precisely the same. But this should give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!
- Serving Size: 2 drumsticks
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
FAQ Section
Common Questions
How long do I need to bake the chicken drumsticks?
Typically, you’ll want to bake your easy oven baked chicken drumsticks for about 35-40 minutes at 425°F (220°C). However, it’s always a good idea to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken drumsticks, but you’ll need to adjust the baking time. It’s best to thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking, but if you’re in a hurry, you can bake them straight from frozen—just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
What sides pair well with chicken drumsticks?
I love serving these drumsticks with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or crispy French fries! You can also go for classic sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw to make it a hearty meal.
How do I store leftovers?
To store your leftover chicken drumsticks, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Just wrap each drumstick in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Can I reheat the drumsticks?
Absolutely! To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This will help keep the skin crispy!
Serving Suggestions
These easy oven baked chicken drumsticks are super versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides! I love serving them with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of roasted broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded meal. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a fresh garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette is perfect. And let’s not forget about classic coleslaw—it adds a nice crunch! Enjoy mixing and matching to find your favorite combinations!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your leftover easy oven baked chicken drumsticks, let them cool down first, then place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to save them for later, you can freeze them! Just wrap each drumstick tightly in plastic wrap and pop them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, and they’ll be crispy and delicious once more!
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Easy Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks: 5 Steps to Perfectly Juicy
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This recipe for easy oven baked chicken drumsticks is simple and delicious.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken drumsticks with the spice mixture.
- Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until cooked through and crispy.
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 drumsticks
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: easy oven baked chicken drumsticks
