Chicken Drumstick Recipe
These oven-baked chicken drumsticks are effortless, family-friendly, and bursting with garlic and paprika flavor—perfect for an easy, delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 8-10 chicken drumsticks about 2½ pounds; free-range or organic recommended
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder or 3 fresh garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika Hungarian brand recommended
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 lemon zest optional but highly recommended
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C), line a baking sheet with parchment or set up a wire rack on a sheet pan.
- Whisk olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, cayenne, oregano, and lemon zest to make a paste.
- Rub the marinade over chicken drumsticks until evenly coated.
- Place drumsticks skin-side up on the prepared rack, spaced apart.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let drumsticks rest for 5 minutes, then serve with lemon wedges or parsley.
Notes
For a richer flavor, marinate drumsticks up to 24 hours ahead. Dry the drumsticks before seasoning for a crispier skin. Adjust baking time for high altitude.
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