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Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks
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Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks offer a deliciously crunchy exterior with juicy, tender meat inside, achieved without frying. This healthier oven-baked recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and a secret baking powder trick to create perfectly golden, flavorful chicken that’s ideal for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8–10 chicken drumsticks, skin on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder (not baking soda)
  • Optional herbs: 1 teaspoon dried or fresh thyme or rosemary

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Drumsticks: Pat the chicken drumsticks completely dry with paper towels to remove all moisture, which helps the skin crisp during baking. Lightly coat the drumsticks with olive oil to allow the seasoning to adhere and to promote browning.
  2. Season Generously: In a bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Toss the drumsticks in this dry seasoning blend until evenly coated, ensuring each piece is covered with the flavorful mixture.
  3. Arrange for Baking: Place the drumsticks spaced out on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or on a parchment-lined tray. Proper spacing allows hot air to circulate around the chicken for even cooking and crispiness.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the drumsticks for 35-40 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking to encourage uniform browning and a crispy crust without drying out the meat.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This rest time helps the juices redistribute within the meat, keeping each bite tender and juicy before serving.

Notes

  • Dry the skin thoroughly before seasoning to ensure maximum crispiness.
  • Use baking powder, not baking soda, to create bubbles in the skin for crisp texture.
  • Flip the drumsticks halfway through baking to ensure even cooking and browning.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan; leave space between drumsticks to allow hot air circulation.
  • Rest drumsticks after baking to lock in juices and improve tenderness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy baked chicken, chicken drumsticks, healthy chicken recipe, oven-baked chicken, gluten free chicken

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/crispy-baked-chicken-drumsticks/