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Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe with Smoky Paprika Rub

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A quick and easy recipe for crispy baked chicken drumsticks coated in a smoky paprika rub, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds / 900 grams), preferably organic or free-range
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until smooth.
  4. Add the drumsticks to the bowl and toss well to coat each piece evenly with the rub.
  5. Set up a baking sheet with a wire rack if available. Arrange the drumsticks spaced out on the rack or directly on the tray.
  6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through at about 18 minutes, until skin is deep golden brown and crispy.
  7. Check doneness with a meat thermometer; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  9. Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra crispiness, watching closely to avoid burning.

Notes

Pat chicken dry to ensure crispy skin. Use a wire rack for even crispiness. Flip drumsticks halfway through baking. Broil 2-3 minutes at the end for extra crispiness if desired. Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge up to 3 days; reheat in oven at 375°F for 10 minutes to restore crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy baked chicken, chicken drumsticks, smoky paprika, easy chicken recipe, baked chicken, weeknight dinner, gluten-free chicken

Find it online: https://lyrafeast.com/crispy-baked-chicken-drumsticks-recipe-with-smoky-paprika-rub-easy-and-perfect/