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Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks in Just 45 Minutes

oven baked chicken drumsticks
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Juicy and crispy oven-baked chicken drumsticks and thighs seasoned with garlic, paprika, and herbs for a flavorful weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs chicken drumsticks (about 6–8)
  • 1 1/2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 4)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic (about 3–4 cloves)
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Lightly oil or spray a large baking dish or sheet pan.
  2. Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Add chicken to a large bowl.
  3. Season: Add olive oil, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Toss until chicken is well coated.
  4. Bake: Arrange chicken skin-side up in the pan. Bake 35 minutes.
  5. Garlic butter finish: In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, melted butter, and lemon juice. Spoon or brush over the chicken.
  6. Finish baking: Return to oven for 10–15 minutes, until deeply golden and the internal temp reaches 165°F (thighs are even better around 175°F).
  7. Rest & serve: Let rest 5 minutes. Spoon pan juices over the chicken and sprinkle with parsley.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
  • Adjust cayenne to control spiciness.
  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
  • Letting the chicken rest ensures juiciness.

Nutrition

Keywords: oven baked chicken drumsticks, baked chicken thighs, crispy baked chicken, sheet pan chicken dinner, easy weeknight chicken dinner, juicy baked chicken

Find it online: https://jessicarecipe.com/crispy-oven-baked-chicken-drumsticks-recipe/