🍗 Crispy Chicken Drumsticks (Oven-Baked)
Perfectly crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside — no deep fryer needed.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 8 chicken drumsticks (skin on, patted very dry)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp baking powder (the secret to extra crispiness — NOT baking soda)
- Optional: ½ tsp chili powder or cayenne for heat
🔥 Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top (this helps air circulate). - Dry the chicken well
Pat drumsticks thoroughly with paper towels. Moisture prevents crisping. - Season
In a large bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and baking powder.
Toss drumsticks with olive oil, then coat evenly in seasoning. - Arrange on rack
Leave space between each piece. - Bake 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until:
- Skin is golden and crispy
- Internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
- Optional extra crisp:
Broil 2–3 minutes at the end (watch carefully!). - Rest 5 minutes, then serve.
🍯 Flavor Variations
- Honey Garlic: Brush with honey + minced garlic during last 5 minutes.
- Buffalo Style: Toss in melted butter + hot sauce after baking.
- BBQ: Brush with BBQ sauce and broil briefly.
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