How To Cook Chicken Drumsticks In The Oven

Are you craving juicy, tender chicken drumsticks with a crispy, flavorful skin? Cooking chicken drumsticks in the oven is a simple and delicious way to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re planning a family meal or a casual get-together with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have succulent chicken drumsticks that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

8 chicken drumsticks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. This flavorful spice blend will enhance the taste of your chicken drumsticks.
Pat the drumsticks dry with a paper towel to ensure the skin gets crispy when cooked.
Brush the drumsticks with olive oil, ensuring they are well coated.
Sprinkle the spice blend evenly over the drumsticks, using your hands to rub it into the skin.
Place the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each to ensure even cooking.
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let the chicken drumsticks cook for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For an extra crispy finish, broil the drumsticks for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
Remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and delicious chicken.

Now that your chicken drumsticks are perfectly cooked, it’s time to dig in and enjoy. Serve them hot with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad. These oven-baked drumsticks are versatile and can be paired with various sauces or dips to suit your taste.

Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the drumsticks. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. Juices should run clear, with no signs of pink or red.

Cooking chicken drumsticks in the oven is a hassle-free way to achieve tender and flavorful meat with a crispy skin. Impress your loved ones with this simple yet mouthwatering recipe. Happy cooking!

If you want to share your tips and tricks for making perfectly cooked chicken drumsticks in the oven, head over to the Cooking Techniques section of our forum and join the discussion on “How To Cook Chicken Drumsticks In The Oven”.

FAQ:

What temperature should I set my oven to when cooking chicken drumsticks?

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature will ensure that the chicken drumsticks cook evenly and develop a crispy outer layer.

How long should I cook chicken drumsticks in the oven?

The cooking time for chicken drumsticks will depend on their size and thickness. Generally, you should cook them for about 35-40 minutes. However, it’s always essential to check their internal temperature using a meat thermometer. The chicken is safe to consume when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Should I marinate the chicken drumsticks before cooking them in the oven?

Marinating the chicken drumsticks before cooking can enhance their flavor and tenderness. You can marinate them for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge. This will allow the meat to absorb the flavors of your chosen marinade. However, if you’re short on time, you can still achieve delicious results by seasoning the drumsticks with herbs, spices, and sauces before baking.

Is it better to use bone-in or boneless chicken drumsticks for oven cooking?

Both bone-in and boneless chicken drumsticks work well in the oven, but they have slightly different cooking times. Boneless drumsticks cook faster, usually taking around 25-30 minutes. On the other hand, bone-in drumsticks take a bit longer, around 35-40 minutes. Choose based on your preference and cooking time availability.

Can I use a baking sheet or should I place the drumsticks on a rack?

While both methods are acceptable, using a rack when cooking chicken drumsticks provides more even heat circulation around the meat, resulting in a crispier texture. If you don’t have a roasting rack, you can place the drumsticks directly on a lined baking sheet, but flipping them halfway through the cooking process will help to ensure even browning.

How can I ensure that the chicken drumsticks stay moist and not dry out in the oven?

To keep the chicken drumsticks moist, consider brushing them with butter, olive oil, or your chosen marinade before baking. Additionally, avoiding overcooking is crucial. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature and remove the drumsticks from the oven as soon as they reach 165°F (74°C). Resting the cooked drumsticks for a few minutes before serving will allow the juices to distribute evenly, resulting in juicy and succulent meat.

Can I cook the chicken drumsticks covered or uncovered in the oven?

It is typically recommended to cook the chicken drumsticks uncovered in the oven. This allows the heat to circulate properly, ensuring even cooking and allowing the outer layer to become crispy. However, if you find that the drumsticks are browning too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil for the first half of the cooking time to prevent excessive browning.

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How To Cook Chicken Drumsticks In The Oven