Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner option, these oven-baked chicken drumsticks are a perfect choice. With the combination of smoky paprika, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, they create a savory flavor that the whole family will love. Plus, they’re simple to prepare and require minimal cleanup, making them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions to create this mouthwatering dish!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Family pack of chicken drumsticks
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
To begin, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil and spraying it with non-stick cooking spray. Next, place the chicken drumsticks on the baking sheet and rub them with olive oil to ensure they remain juicy and flavorful during baking.
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. This flavorful blend of seasonings will coat the drumsticks beautifully. Rub this mixture onto each drumstick, ensuring they are thoroughly coated for maximum flavor.
Now, it’s time to bake. Place the seasoned drumsticks in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they achieve a nice golden brown and crispy exterior. Once cooked through and perfectly browned, remove them from the oven and serve them hot.
Enjoy your delicious oven-baked chicken drumsticks with your favorite sides!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet. Rub each drumstick with olive oil for added flavor and moisture.
Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
Season the Chicken
Rub the seasoning mixture thoroughly onto each chicken drumstick, ensuring they are well-coated for maximum flavor.
Bake the Chicken
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 60 minutes. Turn the drumsticks halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and crisping.
Check for Doneness
Once cooked through and golden brown, remove the chicken drumsticks from the oven.
Serve Hot
Transfer the drumsticks to a serving platter and serve hot.
Notes
Storage
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
These seasoned drumsticks pair well with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Adjusting Spice
Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding more or less of the seasoning ingredients based on personal preference.
Cook techniques
Oven Preheating
Preheating the oven ensures that the chicken drumsticks cook evenly, resulting in a properly cooked and juicy product.
Coating with Olive Oil
Applying olive oil before seasoning helps the spices adhere better to the chicken and promotes browning during baking.
Mixing Seasonings
Combining smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper creates a balanced flavor that enhances the chicken.
Even Coating of Seasoning
Rub the seasoning mixture thoroughly on each drumstick to ensure every part is flavored, leading to a delicious outcome.
Baking Technique
Baking the drumsticks at 400°F (200°C) allows for a crispy exterior while keeping the meat moist inside; turning halfway ensures consistent browning.
Visual Cues for Doneness
Look for a golden-brown color on the drumsticks and ensure the juices run clear when pierced to confirm they are fully cooked.
FAQ
How long should I marinate the chicken with the seasoning?
Marinating is not necessary for this recipe, but if you prefer, you can let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour before baking.
Can I use other cuts of chicken instead of drumsticks?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or breasts, but cooking times may vary depending on the size and cut.
What can I serve with baked chicken drumsticks?
These drumsticks pair well with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Is it possible to grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Yes, grilling is a great alternative. Adjust cooking time based on the heat of the grill and the size of the drumsticks.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed are gluten-free, so it’s safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Be sure to use gluten-free seasoning brands if needed.
Conclusion
The baked chicken drumsticks coated in a zesty blend of smoked paprika, garlic, and Parmesan create a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. This recipe not only highlights the rich flavors of the spices but also ensures the chicken is juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Garlic Herb Roasted Vegetables
Pair your chicken with garlic herb roasted vegetables to add a healthy and colorful side to your meal. Toss your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots with olive oil, garlic, and a mix of herbs before roasting.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Serve the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food combination. Enhance the flavor by adding roasted garlic or cheese to the mashed potatoes.
Quinoa Salad with Feta and Spinach
For a lighter side, a quinoa salad mixed with feta cheese, fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Transform this recipe by adding your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 15 minutes of baking. This will give the drumsticks a sticky, sweet glaze that complements the spice blend nicely.
Spicy Cilantro Lime Rice
Accompany the chicken with a side of spicy cilantro lime rice for an extra kick. The zesty lime and fresh cilantro will brighten up the whole meal while balancing the savory chicken.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Serve alongside roasted sweet potatoes seasoned with cinnamon and paprika. Their natural sweetness will contrast beautifully with the savory drumsticks.
Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad with crunchy romaine, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and a creamy dressing pairs exceptionally well, adding a refreshing element to the hearty chicken.
