Chicken Drumsticks in the Oven (Garlic Butter, Crispy & Juicy)
Chicken drumsticks in the oven are one of those dinners I come back to again and again when I need something reliable, satisfying, and genuinely delicious on the table fast. I've been making this version with garlic butter for years now, and every single time the skin comes out golden and crispy on the outside while the meat stays perfectly juicy inside. If you've ever pulled drumsticks from the oven and been disappointed by pale, soft skin or dry meat, I think this recipe is going to change things for you. It's quick to prep, family-approved, and packed with flavour from a simple but brilliant garlic butter blend.
Servings: 6 people
Ingredients
For the Chicken Drumsticks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 chicken drumsticks skin-in and bone-in
For the Garlic Butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 ½ tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon parsley chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic and chopped parsley. Stir well and set to the side.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the paprika, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with a paper towel. Place the chicken in a large glass bowl and sprinkle the spice blend over the drumsticks, making sure to coat them evenly.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture over each chicken drumstick, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Place the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Place the baking sheet with the drumsticks in the preheated oven. Bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve it hot, garnished with some additional fresh parsley if desired.
Video
Notes
- To Store: Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze up to 4 months.
- To Reheat: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight (if reheating from frozen). Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or shred meat for use in soup and casseroles!
Nutrition
Serving: 1/8 | Calories: 248kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 17g | Cholesterol: 105mg | Sodium: 241mg | Potassium: 14mg