Perfectly Seasoned Crispy Chicken Drumsticks

I’m not going to lie. If you put these Crispy Chicken Drumsticks and deep-fried chicken side by side, I would choose these oven-baked beauties every time.

Save

It’s not much of a surprise, since I’ve been known to post some of our more simple, fuss-free sheet pan dinners, but for readers who still crave that satisfying crunch, these Perfectly Seasoned Crispy Chicken Drumsticks are what you’ve been waiting for.

I’m not usually one to brag, but this recipe is what I would call a Big Success, and I’m fairly certain that it will be some of the best chicken drumsticks you’ll ever have!

Everyone knows that I don’t like overly complicated recipes. The cooking method for these crispy drumsticks is very similar to my other oven-baked chicken recipes, and many of you have successfully made those already!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These drumsticks bring comfort with very little stress.

Crispy skin: The oven heat helps the skin dry and crisp nicely.

Juicy inside: Moist meat stays tender all the way through.

Easy seasoning: Pantry spices cover everything evenly.

Hands free cooking: The oven handles most of the work.

Crowd friendly: Big trays get emptied fast every time.

Save

Ingredients

For the Drumsticks:

• 3 packs pasture raised chicken drumsticks
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper
• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Save

Step by Step Instructions

1. Heat the Oven

The oven should be heated to 425°F. A baking sheet should be lined with foil then lightly coated with oil. This helps with browning and cleanup later.

2. Dry the Chicken

Each drumstick should be patted dry using paper towels. Moisture removal helps the skin crisp instead of steam during baking.

3. Season Everything

The drumsticks should be placed in a large bowl. Olive oil gets poured over them. Garlic powder, oregano, chili powder, paprika, pepper, and salt should be sprinkled evenly. Everything should be tossed until fully coated.

4. Arrange on the Pan

Seasoned drumsticks should be placed on the baking sheet with space between each piece. Crowding should be avoided so heat can move around freely.

5. Bake Until Crisp

The tray should be baked for about 40 to 45 minutes. Halfway through, each drumstick should be turned so both sides brown evenly. Skin should look crisp and meat should reach safe temperature.

6. Rest Before Serving

Once baked, the drumsticks should be rested for five minutes. Juices settle back into the meat during this short wait.

Tips & Variations

• A wire rack can be used on the baking sheet for extra airflow.
• More heat gets added with extra chili powder.
• Lemon zest adds brightness when mixed into seasoning.
• Drumsticks can be marinated earlier for deeper flavor.
• Leftovers crisp well again in a hot oven.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy drumsticks fit easily into many meals. They taste great with roasted potatoes, corn, simple salad, warm bread. At gatherings, they usually disappear fast when paired with dipping sauces. When served at home, they often land next to rice and vegetables. The seasoning works with many sides without clashing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can frozen drumsticks be used?

They should be thawed fully first for best texture.

How is extra crisp skin achieved?

Drying the skin well before seasoning helps a lot.

Is flipping required?

Turning halfway helps even browning.

Can this be made ahead?

Yes, reheating in a hot oven brings back crispness.

How long do leftovers last?

They keep well for three days in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Perfectly Seasoned Crispy Chicken Drumsticks bring crunchy comfort without frying mess. The seasoning feels bold yet balanced and the oven does the hard work. This recipe fits busy nights, relaxed weekends, family tables. Every bite delivers crisp skin and juicy meat with very little effort involved.