Oven-Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Introduction

Oven-Fried Chicken Drumsticks are the perfect combination of crispy, golden-brown exterior and juicy, tender meat inside—all without deep frying. This healthier take on a classic fried favorite brings all the indulgence of fried chicken while keeping it simple and less greasy. The secret lies in a flavorful coating of seasoned breadcrumbs and spices that bake to crunchy perfection.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, casual family gatherings, or even a game-day feast. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal hands-on time, and delivers comfort food satisfaction that rivals traditional fried chicken.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings all the joy of fried chicken without the hassle of oil splatters and deep-frying. The drumsticks stay juicy and flavorful thanks to a simple brining and seasoning technique, while the breadcrumb coating gives a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility. You can adjust the spice level, swap herbs, or add a dash of parmesan for extra flavor. The aroma while baking fills the kitchen with a sense of warmth and comfort—reminding me of classic home-cooked meals.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Healthy Comfort Food: Crispy and delicious without deep frying.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Easy Prep: Minimal hands-on time; bakes in the oven.
• Versatile Flavors: Customize spices and herbs according to taste.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or weeknight dinners.

Preparation Time and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating/Resting Time (optional): 30–60 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 50–55 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 4 (approximately 8 drumsticks)
• Calories per Serving: ~320 kcal
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Chicken Drumsticks:

• 8 chicken drumsticks, skin-on
• 1 cup buttermilk (optional, for marinating)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Cooking Directions

1. Optional Brine/Marinate:
   • Place drumsticks in a bowl with buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes. This step makes the chicken extra juicy.
2. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
3. Prepare the Coating:
   • In a shallow bowl, mix flour, panko, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne (if using), thyme, salt, and black pepper.
4. Coat the Drumsticks:
   • Remove chicken from buttermilk (if marinated) and shake off excess.
   • Dredge each drumstick in the flour-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Prepare for Baking:
   • Place coated drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Drizzle or brush with olive oil or melted butter to help them crisp.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.
7. Serve:
   • Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Optional: Marinate drumsticks in buttermilk, salt, and pepper for 30–60 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
3. Mix flour, panko, and spices in a shallow bowl.
4. Remove drumsticks from marinade and dredge in the coating mixture.
5. Place on baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil or melted butter.
6. Bake for 35–40 minutes, turning once for even crispiness.
7. Rest for 5 minutes, then serve hot.

How to Serve

• Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.
• Pair with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for added color.

Recipe Tips

• Buttermilk brine: Optional but helps tenderize and flavor the chicken.
• Panko crumbs: Give a crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
• Even coating: Press the mixture gently onto chicken for a consistent crust.
• High heat baking: Ensures a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to avoid undercooked chicken.

Variations

1. Spicy Oven-Fried Chicken: Add chili powder or hot sauce to the coating.
2. Parmesan-Crusted: Mix grated parmesan with panko for a cheesy crunch.
3. Herb-Infused: Add rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an aromatic twist.
4. Glazed Version: Brush with honey or BBQ sauce in the last 5 minutes of baking.
5. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Uncooked drumsticks can be coated and frozen for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
• Storage: Cooked drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone mat
• Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)
• Shallow bowls for coating
• Oven-safe brush or spoon for oil

Conclusion

Oven-Fried Chicken Drumsticks are crispy, flavorful, and irresistibly comforting. With a crunchy, golden exterior and juicy, tender meat inside, this recipe provides all the satisfaction of fried chicken without the extra oil. Quick, versatile, and family-friendly, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or even a casual weekend treat. Once you try it, this recipe will become a staple in your home-cooking repertoire.

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Oven-Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Author: admin Cuisine: American Courses: Chicken

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 40 mins Total Time 55 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: per Serving: ~320 kcal

Description

Oven-Fried Chicken Drumsticks are the perfect combination of crispy, golden-brown exterior and juicy, tender meat inside—all without deep frying. This healthier take on a classic fried favorite brings all the indulgence of fried chicken while keeping it simple and less greasy.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

For the Chicken Drumsticks:

• 8 chicken drumsticks, skin-on
• 1 cup buttermilk (optional, for marinating)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions

1. Optional Brine/Marinate: Place drumsticks in a bowl with buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes. This step makes the chicken extra juicy.
2. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
3. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix flour, panko, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne (if using), thyme, salt, and black pepper.
4. Coat the Drumsticks: Remove chicken from buttermilk (if marinated) and shake off excess. Dredge each drumstick in the flour-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Prepare for Baking: Place coated drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or brush with olive oil or melted butter to help them crisp.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.
7. Serve: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Keywords: Oven-Fried Chicken Drumsticks