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Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks. These juicy and flavorful drumsticks, coated in a crispy, seasoned crumb mixture, are perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. You won't believe how deliciously satisfying they are!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 340

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups fine cornflake crumbs alternately, you can use pretzel crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ cup butter (1 stick)
  • 8 chicken drumsticks (keep skin on)

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Baking Sheet
  • Oven
  • Frying Pan

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 425℉. Set the rack in the middle of the oven. This ensures even cooking as the heat circulates around your drumsticks.
  2. Line a baking sheet or pan with foil and set a rack on top of the foil. This allows the heat to circulate under the chicken, creating that irresistible crispy texture.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornflake crumbs, salt, garlic powder, paprika, baking powder, and pepper. Make sure it’s well mixed so each bite is flavorful.
  4. In a separate bowl, melt the butter. This step is crucial as it will coat the drumsticks, helping the crumb mixture stick.
  5. Dip each drumstick in the melted butter, ensuring it’s completely coated.
  6. Roll the buttered drumsticks in the seasoned crumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the crumbs adhere well.
  7. Place the coated drumsticks on the rack. Make sure they’re spaced out to allow for even cooking.
  8. Spray lightly with oil or olive oil spray. This extra layer will help achieve that golden brown crispiness.
  9. Bake for 25 minutes, then flip the drumsticks over and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. The cooking time can vary depending on the size of your drumsticks.
  10. To ensure they’re perfectly cooked, check the internal temperature with an instant read thermometer, which should be 170℉. This ensures they’re safe to eat and juicy.
  11. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute for maximum flavor!

Notes

  • Storage: After cooking, let the drumsticks cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the cooked drumsticks for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
  • Pairing: These drumsticks pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to complete your meal.
  • Flavor Variations: Try adding different spices or herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for a unique twist each time you make them.
  • Instant Pot Option: If you’re short on time, consider cooking the drumsticks in an Instant Pot before baking them for a crispier finish.