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Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks Herb Seasoning Easy Perfect Recipe

crispy baked chicken drumsticks - featured image

This recipe delivers crispy baked chicken drumsticks with a fragrant herb seasoning blend, perfect for quick, fuss-free meals that are flavorful and tender inside.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds or 900 grams), skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Lemon zest from one lemon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or set up a wire rack.
  2. In a small bowl, mix dried thyme, rosemary, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add lemon zest if using.
  3. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up.
  4. Place the drumsticks in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle olive oil over them and toss to coat evenly.
  5. Sprinkle the herb seasoning mix on top and toss again until every piece is coated.
  6. Arrange the drumsticks on the baking sheet or wire rack, spacing them out for air circulation.
  7. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, flipping the drumsticks halfway through cooking for even browning.
  8. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F/74°C) or by cutting into the thickest part to ensure no pink remains. If needed, bake an additional 5 minutes.
  9. Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before serving to keep the meat juicy and let flavors settle.

Notes

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure crispiness. Flip drumsticks halfway through baking for even browning. Use a wire rack for best crispiness but it’s optional. If oven runs hot, reduce temperature to 400°F (205°C) and bake longer. Broil for last 2-3 minutes for extra crisp but watch carefully to avoid burning. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat in oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy baked chicken, chicken drumsticks, herb seasoning, easy chicken recipe, baked chicken, healthy chicken, weeknight dinner