Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Chicken drumsticks are a classic favorite, known for their juicy, tender meat and crispy skin when cooked just right. This recipe brings out the best in these little drumsticks with…
Tip: save now, cook later.Chicken drumsticks are a classic favorite, known for their juicy, tender meat and crispy skin when cooked just right. This recipe brings out the best in these little drumsticks with simple seasonings that highlight their natural flavors and a cooking method that leaves the outside perfectly golden and the inside deliciously moist.
I love making chicken drumsticks because they’re so easy to handle and cook. Whether you’re baking them in the oven or grilling outside, they always turn out great. I usually toss them in a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a bit of paprika for a little color and punch of flavor. It’s a simple combo, but it never fails to please everyone at the table.
My favorite way to serve these drumsticks is alongside some roasted veggies or a fresh salad. They’re also super kid-friendly, which is a bonus in my house! Plus, they make for perfect leftovers — just pop them in the fridge and enjoy cold or reheat for a quick lunch the next day. This recipe is one of those easy staples I always keep in my cooking routine because it’s straightforward, tasty, and always satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Herb-Marinated Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Chicken Drumsticks: These are great for juicy meat and crispy skin. You can swap for chicken thighs or legs if you prefer more meat or different cuts.
Olive Oil: It helps the herbs and spices stick and promotes browning. Avocado or vegetable oil are good substitutes if you want a milder taste.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a smoky flavor and vibrant color. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a touch of chili powder will work.
Herbs (Oregano & Thyme): Dried herbs bring earthy, aromatic notes. Fresh herbs can be used but dial down the quantity—half the amount usually works best.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional for a bit of spice. You can leave it out or replace it with chili flakes or hot sauce if you like heat.
How Can I Get the Skin Crispy While Keeping the Meat Juicy?
To get crispy, tasty skin and juicy meat, keep the following steps in mind:
- Coat the drumsticks evenly with oil and spices to help the skin crisp up in the oven.
- Bake at a high temperature (425°F/220°C) so the skin gets golden and slightly charred.
- Pour a little chicken broth or water in the pan. This creates steam to keep the inside moist.
- Remember to flip the drumsticks halfway through to brown both sides evenly.
- Optional: Use the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end—but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Let the chicken rest after baking. This helps the juices redistribute inside the meat, making it tender.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet or shallow roasting pan – perfect for roasting drumsticks evenly and catching any drippings.
- Mixing bowl – lets you toss the chicken with herbs and oil without making a mess.
- Tongs – makes flipping the drumsticks easy and keeps your hands clean.
- Meat thermometer – helps you check that the chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (74°C).
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper – lines the pan for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding lemon zest and juice to the marinade for a fresh, bright flavor that pairs well with herbs.
- Swap chicken drumsticks for thighs or wings for different textures and cooking times.
- Add smoked paprika and cumin for a deeper, earthier spice profile if you like a bolder taste.
- Mix in chopped fresh rosemary or basil instead of oregano and thyme for a different herb note.
Herb-Marinated Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an optional 30 minutes to marinate for extra flavor. Baking time is around 40-45 minutes, with an additional 5 minutes for resting before serving. Overall, plan for about 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet or shallow roasting pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper to make cleaning up easier later on.
2. Mix the Herb Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Add the chicken drumsticks into the bowl and toss them thoroughly until each piece is evenly coated in the herb and spice mixture. For best flavor, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, though you can skip this step if you’re short on time.
4. Arrange and Add Moisture:
Place the drumsticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet or roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth or water into the bottom of the pan to keep the chicken moist while it bakes.
5. Bake the Drumsticks:
Bake in the oven for 25 minutes. Then carefully flip each drumstick over, and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes. The chicken skin should be golden and slightly charred in spots. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
6. Optional Broiling for Extra Crispiness:
If you want extra crispy skin, broil the drumsticks for an additional 2-3 minutes. Watch closely so they don’t burn.
7. Rest and Serve:
Remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle inside the meat.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful, herb-marinated baked chicken drumsticks!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Drumsticks?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before marinating and baking. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Marinate the chicken drumsticks up to 24 hours in advance and keep them refrigerated. When ready, bake as instructed for fresh, juicy results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep them moist and tasty.
Can I Substitute Chicken Broth With Something Else?
Yes, water works fine to keep the meat moist during baking. For extra flavor, you could also use vegetable broth or a splash of white wine if you prefer.
