Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (for extra crispiness)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a wire rack for even crisping.Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick and enhances crispiness.Season the Drumsticks
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and chili powder. Toss the drumsticks in the mixture until well coated.Coat for Crispiness
In a separate bowl, mix baking powder, breadcrumbs (or crushed cornflakes), cayenne pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Roll each drumstick in this coating, pressing gently to adhere.Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Place the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking.Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).Rest and Serve
Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispy skin, place the drumsticks on a wire rack while baking.
- You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes for an even crunchier texture.
- If using an air fryer, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve with coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 drumsticks
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: crispy chicken drumsticks, baked chicken legs, easy chicken dinner, oven-fried chicken, crunchy chicken recipe