If you’re craving a dish with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch, look no further than this Spicy Easy Baked Chicken Drumsticks recipe. Perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or even a solo treat, this dish combines a kick of spice with the juicy tenderness of baked chicken. With roots in various culinary traditions, spicy chicken drumsticks have become a favorite worldwide, beloved for their versatility and delicious taste.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients to serve four people:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired spiciness)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparing the Marinade
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl, ensuring each drumstick is thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
Baking the Drumsticks
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the Drumsticks: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the marinated drumsticks on the rack, allowing space between each one to ensure even cooking.
- Bake the Drumsticks: Place the drumsticks in the preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, turning them halfway through. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optional Broil: For extra crispy skin, broil the drumsticks for an additional 3–5 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the drumsticks from the oven. Let them rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve hot.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips
- Ensure Crispiness: For crispy skin, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before marinating. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to allow proper air circulation.
- Temperature Guide: Cooking at a higher temperature like 400°F helps in achieving a crispy exterior, whereas 350°F results in a more tender and moist drumstick.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Chicken Drumsticks Indian Recipe: Add 1 teaspoon of garam masala and 1 teaspoon of turmeric to the marinade for an Indian twist.
- Korean Spicy Chicken Drumsticks: Include 1 tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil in the marinade for a Korean flavor profile.
- Air Fryer Option: For those who prefer using an air fryer, set it to 375°F and cook the drumsticks for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through.
Substitutions
- Honey Substitute: Maple syrup or brown sugar can be used instead of honey for a different kind of sweetness.
- Soy Sauce Alternative: For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (2 drumsticks) provides approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
These Spicy Easy Baked Chicken Drumsticks are a must-try for anyone who loves a combination of heat and flavor. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or planning a gathering with friends, these drumsticks are sure to impress. Pair them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or some fluffy rice to complete the meal.