Chicken Drumsticks – Crispy Baked

Chicken Drumsticks are a perfect balance of crispy skin and tender, succulent meat. Coated in a blend of spices and herbs, each bite is bursting with savory goodness. Baked to golden perfection, they make an easy, weeknight-friendly dinner that pairs wonderfully with your favorite sides.

What Are Chicken Drumsticks?

Chicken drumsticks are the meaty, lower portion of a chicken’s leg. The dark meat from this part of the chicken offers a rich, juicy texture that’s perfect for roasting, grilling, or even slow cooking. Due to their high-fat content, drumsticks are packed with flavor and can be prepared in a variety of ways, from crispy baked drumsticks to tender slow-cooked varieties.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Drumsticks:

Pat dry before seasoning: Moisture on the skin can prevent it from crisping up. Always pat your drumsticks dry before applying the seasoning.

Use a rack for even cooking: If you want crispy drumsticks all around, use a rack to elevate the chicken on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate evenly.

Rest before serving: Letting your drumsticks rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute, making them more tender and flavorful.

Try marinating: Marinate your chicken drumsticks for a few hours (or overnight) to infuse more flavor into the meat. You can use a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.

Variations

Chicken drumsticks are incredibly adaptable. Here are a few variations you can try:

Grilled Drumsticks: If you have a grill, marinate your drumsticks and cook them over medium heat for a smoky flavor. Grill for about 25-30 minutes, turning them occasionally until they’re perfectly cooked.

BBQ Chicken Drumsticks: Coat your drumsticks with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. The sauce will caramelize beautifully, creating a sticky, tangy glaze.

Honey Garlic Drumsticks: Add a touch of sweetness to your drumsticks by glazing them with a mixture of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a bit of ginger. This combination creates a lovely balance of savory and sweet.

Spicy Buffalo Drumsticks: If you like heat, toss your cooked drumsticks in a spicy buffalo sauce for a fiery kick. Serve with a side of blue cheese dressing for a classic touch.

Slow Cooker Drumsticks: If you prefer slow cooking, place the drumsticks in a slow cooker with your favorite seasonings and a bit of chicken broth. Cook on low for 4-5 hours until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender.

How to Serve Chicken Drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks are versatile when it comes to sides. Here are a few ideas for serving:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to juicy chicken drumsticks.
• Grilled Vegetables: Pair your drumsticks with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a healthy side.
• Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf with herbs and almonds complements the richness of the chicken.
• Coleslaw: For a refreshing crunch, serve your drumsticks with a tangy coleslaw on the side.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds a sweet, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken.

How to Store Chicken Drumsticks

Leftover chicken drumsticks can be stored in the fridge or freezer:

• Refrigerating: After your drumsticks cool down, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: If you want to store drumsticks for longer, place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the bag with the date so you can track freshness.
• Reheating: To reheat, place your drumsticks in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispier skin, you can broil them for a couple of minutes.

Recipe FAQs

Q: How long does it take to cook chicken drumsticks?

A: Chicken drumsticks typically take around 35-40 minutes to cook at 425°F (220°C), depending on the size of the drumsticks and your oven. Always check the internal temperature, which should be 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I use skinless chicken drumsticks?

A: While skinless drumsticks can be used, you won’t get that crispy skin that many people love. You can still bake or grill skinless drumsticks, but you may need to adjust your seasoning or cooking method to keep them juicy.

Q: Should I remove the skin from the drumsticks before cooking?

A: For a crispier texture and more flavor, it’s best to leave the skin on. However, if you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can remove the skin before cooking.

Q: How can I tell when chicken drumsticks are fully cooked?

A: The best way to tell if chicken drumsticks are done is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the drumstick (without touching the bone). It should read 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.

Q: Can I make chicken drumsticks in the air fryer?

A: Absolutely! Cooking drumsticks in an air fryer is a quick and efficient way to get crispy, delicious chicken. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the drumsticks for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.

Final outcome

Chicken drumsticks are a delightful and satisfying dish that can be cooked in countless ways. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or slow cooking, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try out these recipes and tips to make your next batch of drumsticks truly unforgettable.

Try these other chicken recipes:

• Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Pasta
• Roasted Chicken Breast
• Chicken Wrap