Delicious and Crispy Recipe for Chicken Drumsticks in the Oven

If you're craving a savory and mouth-watering meal, look no further than this delicious and crispy recipe for chicken drumsticks in the oven. This dish is n……

If you're craving a savory and mouth-watering meal, look no further than this delicious and crispy recipe for chicken drumsticks in the oven. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. Follow these steps and tips to achieve perfectly cooked and irresistibly crispy chicken drumsticks.

### Ingredients:

- 8 chicken drumsticks

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 teaspoon black pepper

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1 teaspoon onion powder

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)

- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

### Instructions:

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that crispy skin.

2. **Prepare the Drumsticks**: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to getting a crispy finish. Place the drumsticks in a large bowl.

3. **Season the Drumsticks**: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, dried rosemary, and cayenne pepper. Drizzle the olive oil over the drumsticks and then sprinkle the seasoning mix over them. Toss the drumsticks until they are evenly coated with the oil and spices.

4. **Arrange on a Baking Sheet**: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. Arrange the seasoned drumsticks on the wire rack. This allows the heat to circulate around the drumsticks, helping them cook evenly and become crispy.

5. **Bake**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the drumsticks for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. If you prefer extra crispy skin, you can broil the drumsticks for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the cooking time, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

6. **Rest and Serve**: Remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

### Tips for the Best Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks:

- **Dry the Drumsticks**: Ensuring the drumsticks are dry before seasoning is essential for achieving crispy skin. Pat them dry with paper towels thoroughly.

- **Use a Wire Rack**: Elevating the drumsticks on a wire rack allows for better air circulation, which helps in even cooking and crisping up the skin.

- **Season Generously**: Don’t be shy with the seasoning. The combination of spices in this recipe adds a depth of flavor that makes the drumsticks irresistible.

- **Monitor the Temperature**: Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the drumstick without touching the bone.

- **Resting Time**: Allowing the drumsticks to rest after baking helps in retaining the juices, making the meat more flavorful and tender.

This recipe for chicken drumsticks in the oven is a foolproof way to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort. The combination of spices and the high-temperature baking method ensures that the drumsticks come out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside every time. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy your crispy and flavorful chicken drumsticks!