Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Introduction

Crispy baked chicken drumsticks are a delicious and easy-to-make meal with perfectly seasoned, crunchy skin. This recipe uses a simple blend of spices and a touch of baking powder to achieve a satisfyingly crisp texture without frying.

Ingredients

• 12 chicken drumsticks
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Oil spray
• 3 tsp garlic powder
• 3 tsp onion powder
• 5 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 1 1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt
• 4 1/2 tbsp plain/all-purpose flour
• 3 tsp baking powder (DO NOT confuse with baking soda)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 200°C/390°F (180°C fan-forced). Line a baking tray with foil and place a wire rack on top to help crisp up the undersides of the drumsticks.
2. Step 2: In a shallow bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, flour, and baking powder to create the seasoning.
3. Step 3: Toss the drumsticks in olive oil. Gently stretch and pull the skin on each drumstick to cover as much of the flesh as possible for even crisping.
4. Step 4: Coat each drumstick thoroughly in the seasoning mix, then shake off any excess before placing them on the wire rack.
5. Step 5: Generously spray the drumsticks with oil spray to help them crisp up in the oven.
6. Step 6: Bake for 30 minutes, turning the tray halfway through to ensure even cooking. Increase the oven temperature to 220°C/430°F (200°C fan) and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the drumsticks in olive oil and spices for a few hours before coating and baking.
• Swap smoked paprika for regular paprika or chili powder for a different spice profile.
• Using a wire rack is key to crispiness as it allows heat to circulate around the chicken skin.

Storage

Store leftover crispy drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the skin soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use baking soda instead of baking powder?

No, baking soda will not produce the same crispy texture and may leave an unpleasant taste. Stick to baking powder for best results.

Can I use this recipe for other parts of the chicken?

Yes, this seasoning and method work well with chicken thighs or wings, though cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size of the pieces.

Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 229 reviews

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 drumsticks 1x

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Description

This recipe delivers crispy baked chicken drumsticks with a perfectly seasoned and crunchy skin achieved without deep frying. Coated in a flavorful blend of garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of baking powder for extra crispiness, these drumsticks are oven-baked to golden perfection with a simple and healthy twist using olive oil and an elevated baking temperature.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken Drumsticks

• 12 chicken drumsticks

Seasoning Mix

• 3 tsp garlic powder
• 3 tsp onion powder
• 5 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 4 1/2 tbsp plain/all-purpose flour
• 3 tsp baking powder

Others

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Oil spray

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 200°C/390°F (180°C fan-forced). Line a baking tray with foil and place a rack on top. The rack will allow air to circulate under the drumsticks, helping the undersides become crispy.
2. Seasoning Mix: In a shallow bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, kosher salt, all-purpose flour, and baking powder. Mix well to create an evenly blended seasoning.
3. Oil Coating: Toss the chicken drumsticks in 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil until evenly coated. Gently stretch and pull the skin on each drumstick to cover as much flesh as possible, which helps the seasoning stick better and promotes crispiness.
4. Coat in Seasoning: One by one, coat each drumstick thoroughly in the seasoning mixture, shaking off any excess to avoid clumps. Place the drumsticks neatly on the prepared rack, spaced evenly for air circulation.
5. Oil Spray: Generously spray the drumsticks with oil spray to add an extra layer of fat that will crisp up the skin during baking.
6. Baking: Bake the drumsticks in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, then carefully rotate the tray to ensure even cooking. Increase the oven temperature to 220°C/430°F (200°C fan-forced) and continue baking for another 15 minutes or until the skin is deeply golden and crispy.
7. Serving: Remove from the oven and let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle. Enjoy your crispy baked chicken drumsticks hot!

Notes

• Note 1: Using a rack on the tray helps ensure even heat circulation and crispiness on all sides of the drumsticks.
• Note 2: Do not confuse baking powder with baking soda; baking powder is essential for achieving the crispy texture.
• Note 3: Stretching the skin allows better coverage of the seasoning and promotes crispiness.
• Note 4: Oil spray helps the skin crisp without adding too much additional oil, keeping it healthier than frying.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: crispy baked chicken, baked chicken drumsticks, easy chicken drumsticks, healthy chicken recipe, oven baked chicken