Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for achieving crispy skin.
- Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the seasoning mixture. Ensure every nook and cranny is covered.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place a wire rack on a baking sheet. Arrange the chicken drumsticks on the wire rack in a single layer, making sure they are not touching each other. The wire rack allows air to circulate around the drumsticks, promoting even cooking and crispier skin. If you don’t have a wire rack, you can place them directly on the baking sheet, but be sure to flip them halfway through cooking.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the chicken drumsticks for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the drumstick, avoiding the bone.
- Rest: Remove the chicken drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
Notes
For extra crispy skin, ensure the chicken is very dry before seasoning. You can also broil the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking, but watch closely to prevent burning. Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
