Fitness / September 17, 2023

Crispy Baked Chicken Legs (Chicken Drumsticks)

Drum up something tasty for your family with this recipe for Crispy Baked Chicken Legs, with an irresistible crunch and flavor that will make your taste buds kick up their heels!

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Sure, chili is lovely and pasta dishes like Nona used to make are not without their charm, but for me, comfort comes in one form: Crispy Baked Chicken Legs. Seriously, with their zingy spices and unbelievably crunchy finish, these drumsticks have become a legend at my family get-togethers.

This recipe is as amazing as it is thanks to some basic ingredients and easy steps. It’s a chicken dish, so naturally comparisons to other crave-worthy chicken classics like grilled chicken breasts, air fryer chicken wings, or the traditional roast chicken can be made but each has its fun twist. So, get to your feet ’cause we’re about to cook some legs!

Are Baked Chicken Legs Healthy?

Yes, you can totally have our Crispy Baked Chicken Legs (Yeah, drumsticks!) and still keep it healthy. First off, they’re jam-packed with great quality protein from the chicken, and second, we’re adding in spices like smoked paprika—rich in antioxidants— and garlic powder, which is high in vitamin C. Plus, we’re baking these legs, not frying, so you don’t have to worry about all that unwanted fat that usually comes with the fried ones.

INGREDIENTS

Here’s what you’ll need to make this meal (and, um… don’t forget the drumsticks).

6 medium chicken drumsticks
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
pinch of sea salt and black pepper
sprig of rosemary, chopped

INSTRUCTIONS

Prep

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with baking paper. Melt the butter.

Season

Arrange the chicken legs on the baking sheet and brush with the melted butter. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chopped rosemary.

Bake

Bake the chicken legs in the oven for 20 minutes. Flip them and bake for another 10 minutes. Using a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the chicken, ensure the internal temperature has reached at least 165°F (we recommend 170°F for tastier chicken).

Rest

Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

DEVOUR!

Tips & Tricks to Making Perfect Baked Chicken Legs

Before you begin, make sure the chicken drumsticks are completely dry by patting them with paper towels.
Rub generously with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, pepper, and sea salt.
Keep an eye on the oven to avoid overcooking.
Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

FAQs

How hot should the chicken legs get in the middle?

It’s recommended that your chicken should hit at least 165°F (check with a food thermometer). But if you want your drumsticks to be super tender and packed with flavor, shoot for 170–175°F.

can I marinate these drumsticks before baking?

Definitely, though it’s not strictly needed for this recipe. I like to mix the seasoning with a bit of olive oil and then lather it on. Then I leave them to chill in the fridge for at least an hour or even overnight.

How can I make sure I get super-crispy skin?

Once you’ve totally dried the chicken, brush on that butter. The high baking temperature will help evaporate the skin’s moisture and result in that crispy finish.

Any tips on shaking up this recipe a bit?

Fancy a lemon-pepper twist? Go for it! Or swap the smoked paprika with sweet paprika if you’re craving a gentler sweetness. Feeling spicy? A dash of cayenne is just what you’ll need.

can i use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

No problem! Just keep in mind that the cooking times might need a tweak, and check the temperature to make sure it hits that 170°F sweet spot.

Chicken Drumsticks featured image below 2

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these golden delights with a refreshing cucumber salad or a heaping serving of red-skin mashed potatoes for a wholesome meal. And don’t forget that squeeze of lemon or a dipping sauce of your choice for that added zest and tang!

how to prep and store baked chicken legs

Whipping up these drumsticks ahead of time is totally an option. Just season, bake, and let cool. At this point, put them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge where they will keep for the next 3 days. When it’s time to eat, set the oven to 375°F and warm the chicken for 10–15 minutes. You’ll know they’re good when they’re sizzling hot and sporting a nice, crunchy coat. And let’s leave the microwave out of this one—unless you prefer rubbery chicken!

Baked Chicken Legs

Drum up something tasty for your family with this recipe for Crispy Baked Chicken Legs, with an irresistible crunch and flavor that will make your taste buds kick up their heels!

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Servings

Calories 233kcal

Author FoodFaithFitness

Ingredients

6 medium chicken drumsticks
2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
pinch of sea salt and black pepper
sprig of rosemary chopped

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with baking paper. Melt the butter.
Arrange the chicken legs on the baking sheet and brush with the melted butter. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chopped rosemary.
Bake the chicken legs in the oven for 20 minutes. Flip them and bake for another 10 minutes. Using a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the chicken, ensure the internal temperature has reached at least 165°F (we recommend 170°F for tastier chicken).
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Rub generously with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, pepper, and sea salt.
Keep an eye on the oven to avoid overcooking.
Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Nutrition

The post Crispy Baked Chicken Legs (Chicken Drumsticks) appeared first on Food Faith Fitness.