Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Sticky Spice Rub

Name: Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Sticky Spice Rub
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1.5 kg chicken drumsticks (about 8 pieces); 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp salt; 0.5 tsp black pepper; 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

65 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Enjoy these budget-friendly drumsticks with a sticky spice rub, baked until perfectly crispy on all sides.

Prep

15 min

Cook

45 min

Total

65 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Chicken drumsticks are a cost-effective and delicious option for a weeknight meal or casual gathering. By using a sticky spice rub and baking them on a rack, you can achieve a crispy exterior that seals in the juicy goodness of the chicken. This recipe is designed to be simple yet flavourful, combining common pantry spices to create a mouthwatering rub. Whether you're new to cooking or a seasoned chef, these drumsticks promise to deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite. Plus, the preparation is minimal, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.

Pro tip: Using a rack helps the heat circulate around the drumsticks, ensuring even crisping.

Prepare the spice rub

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Pro tip: Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your desired level of spice.

Season the drumsticks

Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Rub the spice mixture all over the drumsticks, ensuring they are well coated.

Pro tip: Let the drumsticks sit for 30 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavours.

Bake the drumsticks

Place the drumsticks on the prepared wire rack. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, turning halfway through.

Check for doneness

Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 74°C (165°F) by probing the thickest part near the bone.

Pro tip: A meat thermometer is the best tool for checking doneness.

Rest and serve

Remove the drumsticks from the oven and allow them to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: Resting helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

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Tips & Tricks

Use a baking rack to ensure even crisping on all sides.
Let the spice rub sit for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavour.
Always check the internal temperature for doneness.
Line the baking tray with foil for easy cleanup.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long to bake drumsticks?

Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 40-45 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).

What temperature should I bake chicken drumsticks?

Bake chicken drumsticks at 200°C (400°F) for the best results.

Can I use frozen drumsticks?

Yes, but thaw them completely in the fridge first to ensure even cooking and safety.

How do I make drumsticks crispy?

Bake them on a wire rack to allow air circulation, and ensure they are well dried before seasoning.

What can I serve with baked drumsticks?

Pair them with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or your favourite dipping sauce for a complete meal.

How do I store leftover drumsticks?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these drumsticks with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They also pair wonderfully with a dipping sauce like honey mustard or ranch. These drumsticks can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until they're warmed through and crispy again.

Nutrition per serving

290

Calories

28g

Protein

20g

Unlock the secret to juicy baked chicken breast with a simple brine and precise cooking techniques.

Easy50 min

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