Are you ready to enjoy some delicious baked chicken drumsticks that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside? I can’t wait to share this easy recipe with you! Trust me, this dish is perfect for any night of the week, and it’s sure to make everyone at your table smile. Let’s dive in and get cooking!

Cook Time: 45

Prep Time: 10

Yields: 6

Calories: 398

Simple Ingredients for Flavorful Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Let’s gather some simple yet delicious ingredients to make your baked chicken drumsticks standout. Hear’s what you’ll need:

6 bone-in chicken drumsticks (about 4 ounces each) – The star of your dish! These drumsticks are juicy and perfect for baking.
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil – This gives the drumsticks a lovely flavor and helps get that crispy texture.
6 tablespoons unsalted butter – Softened to add richness and moisture.
Garlic salt – Just a pinch will enhance the savory taste. Adjust this to your liking!
Seasoned salt – A dash of this will add an extra layer of flavor.
Salt and ground black pepper – For seasoning to taste. These basics are key to enhancing your dish.

Feel free to customize the seasoning! If you enjoy a little heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some smoked paprika can take your drumsticks to the next level.

When choosing your chicken, opt for organic or free-range if possible. Not only does it taste better,but it also supports better animal farming practices. With these ingredients lined up, you’re ready to get cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Now, let’s move on to the fun part: cooking! Follow these clear steps to whip up your mouthwatering baked chicken drumsticks.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for crispy skin and juicy meat.

Prepare your baking dish. Line a glass or ceramic dish with foil for easy cleanup.

Add olive oil. Pour ¼ cup of olive oil into the bottom of the prepared dish, spreading it evenly.

Arrange the drumsticks. Place the drumsticks in a single layer in the dish, alternating their direction to fit them snugly without overcrowding.

Top with butter. Add 1 tablespoon of softened butter on each drumstick.

Season it up. Sprinkle the garlic salt, seasoned salt, regular salt, and black pepper over the drumsticks. Be liberal, as this is where the flavor really comes from!

Bake. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35 minutes.

Brush with remaining oil. After 35 minutes, take the dish out and brush the drumsticks with the remaining ¼ cup of olive oil.

Finish baking. Return them to the oven and continue baking until the chicken is fully cooked—about 10 to 15 minutes more. Check for doneness: the internal temperature should read at least 165°F (74°C) when a meat thermometer is inserted near the bone.

Serve and enjoy! Let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes before serving. They’re fantastic on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauces.

Now that you have these steps, get ready to savor the flavors of your homemade baked chicken drumsticks!

Serving and Storage Tips for Baked Chicken Drumsticks

After creating your delicious baked chicken drumsticks, it’s time to think about serving and storing them properly. This dish is perfect for any meal, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends.

Serving Suggestions:

Presentation: I like to serve these drumsticks hot, straight from the oven. arrange them on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
Dipping Sauce: Pair them with a dipping sauce to elevate the flavor. A simple homemade honey mustard or classic BBQ sauce works beautifully. If you prefer store-bought, I recommend Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ Sauce or Annie’s Organic Honey Mustard for a delicious complement.
Side Dishes: Consider serving your chicken with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage Information:

If you’ve got leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), here’s how to store them:

Refrigeration: Allow the drumsticks to cool entirely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the drumsticks. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for about 3 months. Just remember to label the bag with the date for reference.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This will help restore their crispy texture.

These tips will help you enjoy your baked chicken drumsticks to their fullest, whether fresh out of the oven or as tasty leftovers!

Helpful Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting Tips

Cooking should be fun, but sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are some notes and troubleshooting tips to help you out along the way with your baked chicken drumsticks.

Flavor Adjustments:

if you find that your drumsticks need a little more kick,try adding a bit of cayenne pepper,paprika,or even your favorite hot sauce to the seasoning mix before baking.
For a tangy twist, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and spices for a few hours before baking. This not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat.

Cooking Time:

Cooking times can vary depending on the size of your drumsticks and your oven. Always use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) near the bone.
If your chicken isn’t browning as expected, you can broil it for a few minutes at the end of the baking time.Just be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.

Common Issues:

Skin is not crispy: ensure you’ve used enough oil and are baking at a high enough temperature. If they come out soggy, try placing them on a wire rack above the baking dish to allow air circulation while baking.
Dry chicken: If your chicken turns out dry, it might have been cooked too long or at too high a temperature. Keep an eye on the time and consider covering the dish with foil during the first half of baking for added moisture.

These notes should help guide you through any hiccups you might encounter, ensuring your baked chicken drumsticks are a success every time!