Seasoned Crispy Chicken Drumsticks – Juicy, Flavorful & Easy!
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside – these Seasoned Crispy Chicken Drumsticks are the ultimate easy dinner idea! Coated in bold spices and baked (or air-fried) to golden perfection, they’re budget-friendly, family-approved, and packed with flavor. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or game day eats!
Equipment
- Baking sheet + wire rack (oven method)
- Cast iron skillet or deep fryer (frying)
- Air fryer basket (air-frying)
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Parchment paper (optional)
Ingredients
- 12 chicken drumsticks (about 3 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- ½ tsp dried thyme or oregano
- 2–3 tbsp flour, cornstarch, or breadcrumb blend (optional, for extra crisp)
Optional Glazes or Seasoning Variations:
- BBQ spice rub, honey-garlic, lemon-pepper, soy-ginger, or Cajun mix
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat drumsticks dry and trim excess skin/fat.
- Season: Combine spices and rub all over the chicken. Drizzle with oil to help seasonings stick.
- Coat (Optional): Lightly dust with flour, cornstarch, or breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Shake off excess.
- Cook:Oven-Baked: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place drumsticks on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake 35–45 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and 165°F internally.Fried: Heat oil to 350–375°F (175–190°C). Fry in batches 10–12 minutes until crispy and cooked through. Drain on a wire rack.Air Fryer: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Rest: Let drumsticks rest 5 minutes before serving to retain crispiness.
- Serve: Pair with sides like coleslaw, roasted veggies, or dipping sauces (ranch, honey mustard, aioli).
Notes
- Skin-On for Crunch: Removing skin reduces crisp factor.
- Flavor Boost: Season under the skin for deeper flavor.
- Make Ahead: Refrigerate cooked drumsticks for 3–4 days; reheat in oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
- Freezing: Cooked drumsticks freeze up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
- Serving Ideas: Try with mashed potatoes, cornbread, or a fresh salad.