Seasoned Crispy Chicken Drumsticks

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Seasoned Crispy Chicken Drumsticks are a simple yet delicious dish that results in perfectly crispy skin and juicy meat. The chicken drumsticks are coated with a flavorful seasoning mix, typically made with a combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and sometimes a touch of cayenne pepper for heat. After being seasoned, the drumsticks are baked in the oven or air-fried, allowing the skin to become golden and crisp while keeping the chicken inside tender and juicy.

I first made Seasoned Crispy Chicken Drumsticks when I was looking for an easy, no-fuss dinner that packed a lot of flavor, and they turned out to be a crowd-pleaser. The seasoning mix creates a delicious crust on the outside, while the meat stays perfectly moist. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is—you can tweak the seasoning mix to suit your tastes, add a bit of lemon zest for freshness, or even marinate the chicken beforehand for extra flavor. They’re perfect served with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side salad for a complete meal!

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Barbecues
• Casual gatherings
• Comfort food cravings
• Chicken lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why these Seasoned Crispy Chicken Drumsticks will become your new favorite dish:

• Crispy Perfection: The seasoned coating fries up golden and crispy, creating an irresistible crunch.
• Juicy Chicken: Despite the crispy exterior, the chicken stays tender and juicy on the inside.
• Flavorful Seasoning: A blend of spices gives the chicken a savory, flavorful kick.
• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal preparation, making it a go-to for busy days.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both adults and kids, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
• Versatile Dish: Serve with your favorite side dishes or as a snack for any occasion.
• One Pan Cooking: Simple cleanup with just one pan to wash.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These drumsticks hold up well, making them great for leftovers or meal prepping.
• Customizable Seasoning: Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less heat.
• Affordable and Filling: A budget-friendly meal that fills everyone up.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 28g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 14g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Drumsticks:

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

For the Crispy Coating:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Ingredient Highlights

• Garlic and Onion Powder: Provide a savory depth of flavor to the chicken.
• Paprika: Adds smokiness and a mild heat to the seasoning blend.
• Cornmeal: Ensures a crispy, crunchy coating for the drumsticks.
• Cayenne Pepper: Optional, but gives a spicy kick for those who enjoy heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Drumsticks:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken drumsticks with olive oil, ensuring they are coated evenly. Then, sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, dried thyme, and cayenne (if using) all over the chicken. Set aside to marinate for 10 minutes.

Prepare the Crispy Coating:

3. Mix the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
4. Coat the Drumsticks: Dredge each seasoned drumstick into the coating mixture, making sure each one is thoroughly covered. Place the coated drumsticks onto the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Chicken Drumsticks:

5. Bake: Bake the drumsticks for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
6. Rest: Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serve:

7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the crispy drumsticks hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Seasoned Crispy Chicken Drumsticks:

• With Mashed Potatoes: Pair the crispy drumsticks with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic combo.
• With Coleslaw: Serve with coleslaw for a refreshing, tangy contrast to the crispy chicken.
• With Corn on the Cob: A delicious summer pairing for a complete BBQ meal.
• In a Sandwich: Use the drumsticks in a sandwich with your favorite condiments and pickles.
• With a Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness of the chicken.
• With Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf complements the savory flavors of the chicken.
• For Meal Prep: Pack the drumsticks with sides for a ready-to-eat lunch throughout the week.
• With Dipping Sauces: Serve with BBQ sauce, ranch, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
• As a Snack: Great for an afternoon snack or appetizer at a party.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, potatoes, or other seasonal veggies for a hearty meal.

Additional Tips

• Rest After Baking: Let the drumsticks rest before serving to lock in the juices.
• For Extra Crispiness: For an even crispier exterior, place the drumsticks under the broiler for the last 3-5 minutes of baking.
• Marinate for Longer: If you have time, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours before baking for even more flavor.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature at the thickest part of the drumstick.
• Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to add more spices like cumin, chili powder, or rosemary for a personal touch.

Recipe Variations

• Honey BBQ Drumsticks: Brush with honey BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes of baking for a sweet, tangy twist.
• Spicy Buffalo Drumsticks: Coat the chicken in buffalo sauce before baking for a spicy kick.
• Lemon Herb Drumsticks: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs like rosemary and parsley to the seasoning for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
• Crispy Baked Drumsticks: For a lighter version, skip the flour coating and just season the drumsticks before baking.
• Gluten-Free Drumsticks: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the coating.
• Smoky Paprika Drumsticks: Add extra smoked paprika for a smoky, barbecue-like flavor.
• Cajun Drumsticks: Use Cajun seasoning for a spicier, Southern-inspired flavor.
• Garlic Parmesan Drumsticks: After baking, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic for an Italian-inspired variation.
• Vegan Drumsticks: Use plant-based drumsticks or tofu as a substitute for the chicken for a vegetarian version.
• Sweet and Sour Drumsticks: Brush with sweet and sour sauce during the last few minutes of baking for a tangy glaze.

Special Equipment

• Baking Sheet: For baking the drumsticks.
• Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
• Shallow Bowl: For mixing and dredging the coating.
• Meat Thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the chicken.
• Tongs: To flip the drumsticks while baking for even cooking.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
   Yes, chicken thighs work well and may require slightly longer cooking time.
2. How long does this recipe last in the fridge?
   The drumsticks can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
3. Can I freeze the drumsticks?
   Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
4. Can I skip the cornmeal for the coating?
   Yes, you can use just flour or breadcrumbs as an alternative.
5. How do I make the drumsticks extra crispy?
   Use a higher heat setting, and consider finishing them under the broiler for a few minutes to get that extra crunch.
6. Can I cook these drumsticks in an air fryer?
   Yes, air fry at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for a crispy finish.
7. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
   Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor.
8. Can I make these drumsticks spicy?
   Absolutely! Add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce to suit your heat preference.
9. Can I make a larger batch?
   Yes, simply double or triple the ingredients, and cook the drumsticks in batches.
10. What can I serve with these drumsticks instead of mashed potatoes?
    Try serving with baked sweet potatoes, couscous, or roasted Brussels sprouts.

Conclusion

Seasoned Crispy Chicken Drumsticks are the ultimate comfort food with a golden, crunchy exterior and juicy, tender meat on the inside. Coated in a blend of savory spices, these drumsticks are baked to perfection, resulting in a crispy skin that’s full of flavor. The combination of paprika, garlic powder, and other seasonings gives them a smoky, herby taste that will have you craving more.

This recipe is simple to prepare, with minimal hands-on time, making it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend meal. You can serve them with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete and satisfying meal. The crispy chicken drumsticks are easy to make, but they taste like something special.

I can’t wait to see how your Seasoned Crispy Chicken Drumsticks turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!