Introduction: 

Chicken drumsticks are a favorite among both kids and adults, and for a good reason – they're flavorful, easy to eat, and perfect for various occasions. In this recipe, we'll show you how to make crispy baked chicken drumsticks that are seasoned to perfection. These drumsticks are a healthier alternative to fried chicken but are just as delicious. Let's dive into the kitchen and get cooking!


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Ingredients:

10 chicken drumsticks

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spiciness)

Cooking spray (for the baking sheet)


Instructions:


Preheat the Oven: 

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a rack in the upper third of the oven for even cooking.


Prepare the Chicken: 

Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps ensure the skin gets crispy during baking.


Season the Drumsticks: 

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful seasoning mixture.


Coat the Drumsticks: 

Add the chicken drumsticks to the seasoning mixture in the bowl. Toss the drumsticks until they are evenly coated with the seasoning.


Prepare the Baking Sheet: 

Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the rack with cooking spray to prevent the drumsticks from sticking.


Arrange the Drumsticks: 

Place the seasoned chicken drumsticks on the wire rack, leaving some space between each drumstick. This allows air to circulate around them, which helps achieve crispy skin.


Bake the Drumsticks: 

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and golden brown. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).


Serve: 

Remove the baked chicken drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain the juiciness of the meat. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces or sides.


Enjoy: 

Grab a drumstick, dip it in your preferred sauce, and savor the crispy and flavorful goodness of these baked chicken drumsticks.


Conclusion: 

These crispy baked chicken drumsticks are a crowd-pleaser and a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. With a perfect balance of seasonings, they're sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a game day snack, this recipe is a winner. Give it a try and enjoy these delicious, crispy chicken drumsticks!