Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Enjoy tender, juicy chicken drumsticks with a wonderfully crisp, golden-brown skin, all baked to perfection in the oven. This simple, low-sodium recipe uses garlic and herbs for a delicious flavor that doesn't rely on salt.
For 4 servings
5 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet
- b.Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- c.Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack for easier cleanup and better air circulation.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the chicken and seasoning
- b.Pat the chicken drumsticks completely dry with paper towels. This is key for crispy skin.
- c.In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, black pepper, paprika, and salt.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Season the drumsticks
- b.Place the dry drumsticks in a large bowl or a zip-top bag.
- c.Pour the olive oil and herb mixture over the chicken.
- d.Use your hands or shake the bag to coat each drumstick evenly on all sides.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Bake the chicken
- b.Arrange the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between them.
- c.Bake for 25 minutes.
- d.Remove from the oven, flip the drumsticks over, and return to the oven.
- e.Bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Check for doneness and rest
- b.Check that the chicken is cooked through by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a drumstick, avoiding the bone. It should read 165°F (74°C).
- c.Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra crispy skin, place the drumsticks on a wire rack set inside the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate all around the chicken.
- 2Patting the chicken skin completely dry before adding the oil rub is the most important step for achieving a crispy, non-soggy result.
- 3Feel free to experiment with other salt-free seasonings like onion powder, smoked paprika, or a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
- 4Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- 5Reheat in the oven or an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to help crisp the skin back up.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the black pepper and paprika for a milder flavor. You can add a teaspoon of honey to the oil mixture for a slightly sweet glaze.
ckd friendlyCkd friendly
Limit serving to 1 drumstick per person. Omit the salt completely and use a potassium-free salt substitute if desired. Serve with low-potassium sides like cucumber salad or white rice.
herbyHerby
Add 1/2 teaspoon each of dried thyme and rosemary to the seasoning blend for a more complex herbal flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Chicken is a high-quality protein source, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Heart-Healthy
This recipe is very low in sodium, which is beneficial for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Rich in Niacin
Chicken provides Niacin (Vitamin B3), which helps convert food into energy and supports the nervous and digestive systems.
Lower in Fat
Baking requires significantly less added fat than frying, making this a lighter option that helps manage calorie intake.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this version is very healthy. Baking is a much healthier cooking method than frying, and this recipe is low in sodium, making it a great choice for a heart-healthy diet. Chicken is also an excellent source of lean protein.