Oven-Baked Crispy Chicken Drumsticks

What Ingredients Do You Need?

• 8 Chicken drumsticks
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 tsp Baking powder (aluminum-free)
• 2 tsp Smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Garlic powder
• 1 tsp Onion powder
• 1.5 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper
• 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper

How Do You Make Oven-Baked Crispy Chicken Drumsticks?

1. 1

   Dry the skin

   Pat the drumsticks completely dry with paper towels; moisture is the enemy of crispy skin. Let them air-dry uncovered in the fridge for 30 minutes if time allows.

2. 2

   Season

   Toss the drumsticks with olive oil, baking powder, and all the spices, making sure every piece is evenly coated. The baking powder raises the skin's pH and helps it crisp.

3. 3

   Arrange on a rack

   Place the drumsticks on a wire rack set over a foil-lined baking sheet, spaced apart so air circulates around each piece.

4. 4

   Roast

   Bake at 425°F for 35-40 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the skin is deep golden brown and shattering-crisp.

5. 5

   Check doneness

   Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part near the bone; it should read at least 165°F, though 175-180°F yields juicier, more tender meat.

6. 6

   Rest and serve

   Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving so the juices redistribute.