“I made this tonight — WINNER WINNER CHICKEN DINNER!!! 🎖️🏆 Thank you so much, Beth, for sharing this recipe. Honestly, I was really dreading making the last 5 drumsticks (from a 5lb bag) in the air fryer so I started searching for oven baked recipes and here I am. Big points for being easy and quick!!! This saved me tonight. And my bf LOVED it!! It was delicious!!! I have bookmarked this page, and signed up for the weekly emails. I will definitely be making this again. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! 💯🔥🙌💘”

Sarah

Ingredients

• Chicken Drumsticks: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks for maximum flavor and juiciness.
•  used 6 drumsticks (about 1.75 lbs total). If you’re using more or fewer drumsticks, be sure to adjust the seasoning amounts accordingly. You can also swap in bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs using the same method as in this recipe.
• Cooking Oil: This helps the seasonings to stick and crisps up the chicken skin in the oven. You can use any high-heat oil, such as canola, vegetable, or avocado oil.
• Seasonings: I season my baked chicken drumsticks with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper, but you can play around with the seasonings and use whatever you like! I’ve shared some more seasoning ideas below.

Can I Use Chicken Breasts in this Recipe?

Dark meat chicken, like drumsticks and thighs, is very forgiving, especially when cooked with the bone-in and skin on. The skin helps hold in moisture, and the higher fat content of the meat helps it stay tender and juicy. Chicken breast needs a slightly different technique because it’s a leaner cut of meat. I only recommend swapping the drumsticks for bone-in, skin-on thighs when using the method in this recipe.

For a bone-in, skin-on chicken breast, I suggest using the method in my herb roasted chicken breast. Boneless skinless chicken breast should be cooked using the method in my baked chicken breasts recipe.

Other Seasoning Ideas for Baked Chicken Drumsticks

I used a very classic mix of smoked paprika, garlic, onion, and oregano for this chicken drumsticks recipe, but you can literally use any seasoning blend you like for this. There is so much flexibility! Here are a few ideas for seasoning your oven-baked chicken drumsticks:

What to Serve with Chicken Drumsticks

I made some roasted broccoli and mashed potatoes to serve with these drumsticks, but they’d go great with any classic side, like Parmesan roasted potatoes, steamed veggies, rice, a simple side salad, or coleslaw. I think a dipping sauce would also be delicious! Some of my favorites are honey mustard, BBQ, ranch dressing, or comeback sauce.

Storing and Reheating

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, I’d place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F until heated through. You can also freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How to Make Chicken Drumsticks – Step by Step Photos

Recipe Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425ºF. Combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Place the chicken drumsticks in a bowl and drizzle with cooking oil. Sprinkle the prepared seasoning over the drumsticks, then toss until they’re evenly coated.
3. Place the seasoned drumsticks on a baking sheet with enough space around each so they’re not touching. Line the baking sheet with foil or parchment for easier cleanup, if desired.
4. Transfer the chicken to the oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 175ºF, flipping once halfway through. Serve hot.

FAQ

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, while this recipe is best for bone-in pieces, you can use boneless chicken. Cooking times may vary, so check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

2. What kind of oil should I use?

Any high-heat oil like canola, vegetable, or avocado oil works well.

3. Can I prepare the chicken drumsticks in advance?

Yes, you can season them a few hours before cooking and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

4. How do I keep the chicken crispy?

Make sure to space the drumsticks out on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding for even cooking and crispy skin.

5. Where can I buy ingredients for the recipe?

You can find most ingredients at your local grocery store or order them online from Amazon.