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Easy Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks

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These Easy Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks are juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and packed with flavor. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep favorite. Pair it with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal the whole family will love!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 lbs / 1 kg)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)

For garnish (optional):

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. (This helps the chicken stay crispy.)
  2. Prepare the drumsticks:
    • Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness. Place them in a large bowl.
  3. Season the chicken:
    • Drizzle the drumsticks with olive oil.
    • In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and chili powder (if using).
    • Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the drumsticks and toss until they are evenly coated.
  4. Bake:
    • Arrange the drumsticks on the wire rack in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, flipping the drumsticks halfway through, until the chicken is golden, crispy, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Garnish and serve:
    • Remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes.
    • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.

Notes

  • Crispy tip: Baking the drumsticks on a wire rack allows air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring an evenly crispy exterior.
  • Seasoning variations: Customize the spices with your favorites, such as cajun seasoning, BBQ rub, or a lemon-herb blend.
  • Leftovers: Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
  • Make it saucy: Brush the drumsticks with BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, or honey garlic glaze during the last 5 minutes of baking for extra flavor.