10 Easy Drumstick Chicken Recipes

Just when you're looking for new ways to prepare chicken, drumsticks offer the perfect combination of affordability and flavor. You'll find these 10 easy recipes transform simple chicken legs into dishes your family will request again and again. From classic BBQ to exotic tandoori, each recipe brings its own unique blend of seasonings and cooking techniques to your kitchen. Let's explore how these budget-friendly cuts can become the star of your next dinner.

Classic Oven-Baked BBQ Drumsticks

Classic Oven-Baked BBQ Drumsticks deliver the perfect combination of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors that satisfy any comfort food craving. The meat becomes tender and juicy on the inside while developing a sticky, caramelized exterior that makes these drumsticks irresistible.

This foolproof recipe transforms simple chicken drumsticks into a family favorite meal without the need for a grill or complicated techniques. The low-and-slow cooking method ensures the chicken cooks thoroughly while the BBQ sauce creates a glossy coating that sticks to your fingers in the best possible way.

Ingredients:

• 8-10 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels and toss them with olive oil and all the dry seasonings in a large bowl until evenly coated. Arrange the drumsticks on a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove from the oven and brush generously with BBQ sauce on all sides. Return to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, basting with additional sauce every 10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the exterior is nicely caramelized.

For the best results, avoid using cold chicken straight from the refrigerator – let the drumsticks sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking. Line your baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup, as the BBQ sauce will caramelize and can be difficult to scrub off. If the sauce starts to burn during cooking, tent the pan with foil to prevent excessive charring.

Honey Garlic Glazed Drumsticks

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Honey garlic glazed drumsticks combine the sweet and savory flavors that make chicken irresistible. The combination of honey's natural sweetness with garlic's pungent depth creates a sticky, caramelized coating that transforms ordinary drumsticks into a memorable meal.

This recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken with a perfectly balanced glaze that's neither too sweet nor too garlicky. The drumsticks can be baked in the oven or grilled outdoors, making this dish versatile for any season or cooking preference.

Ingredients:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup honey
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, black pepper, salt, and apple cider vinegar in a bowl to create the marinade. Place the drumsticks in a large zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove drumsticks from marinade and place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes, turning once halfway through and basting with the remaining marinade every 15 minutes.

For the final 5 minutes, switch the oven to broil to achieve a caramelized finish on the glaze. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

For best results, bring the drumsticks to room temperature 30 minutes before cooking, and line your baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup as the honey mixture can become quite sticky. If grilling, maintain medium heat and avoid direct flames to prevent burning the glaze. The marinade can be reduced in a saucepan to create an extra serving sauce, but be sure to boil it for at least 5 minutes since it contained raw chicken.

Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Drumsticks

Crispy Parmesan-crusted drumsticks combine the savory flavors of aged cheese with perfectly seasoned chicken for a dish that's both elegant and comforting. The golden-brown crust creates a satisfying crunch while keeping the meat underneath tender and juicy.

This recipe transforms simple chicken drumsticks into a restaurant-quality meal that's surprisingly easy to prepare at home. The Parmesan coating not only adds flavor but also helps seal in moisture during cooking, ensuring each bite is perfectly seasoned and delicious.

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels, then dip each piece first in the egg mixture, followed by the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure even coating.

Place the coated drumsticks on a lined baking sheet brushed with olive oil. Bake for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

For best results, bring the drumsticks to room temperature 30 minutes before cooking, and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet as this can prevent proper crisping. If the coating starts to brown too quickly, tent the drumsticks with aluminum foil to prevent burning while ensuring they cook through completely.

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks

Spicy Buffalo-style chicken drumsticks bring the bold flavors of a sports bar favorite right to your dinner table. This recipe transforms ordinary chicken legs into a zesty, finger-licking dish that perfectly balances heat with savory satisfaction.

The key to achieving the perfect buffalo drumsticks lies in getting that crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside. The signature sauce, a blend of hot sauce and butter, creates that classic buffalo coating that's both spicy and rich.

Ingredients:

• 12 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup Frank's RedHot sauce
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels and season them with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the drumsticks on a lined baking sheet and brush with vegetable oil. Bake for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

While the chicken cooks, prepare the buffalo sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat and whisking in the hot sauce until well combined. Once the drumsticks are done, toss them in the warm buffalo sauce until thoroughly coated. For extra crispy results, return the coated drumsticks to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.

For best results, avoid using drumsticks straight from the refrigerator – let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. If you're sensitive to heat, start with less hot sauce and adjust to taste. The sauce can be prepared ahead of time and reheated when needed, and leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Asian Sweet and Sour Drumsticks

Asian Sweet and Sour Drumsticks combine the perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors, creating a delicious Asian-inspired meal that's both affordable and satisfying. The drumsticks are first marinated to ensure the meat remains juicy and flavorful, then baked until golden brown while being basted with a rich sweet and sour sauce.

This recipe transforms simple chicken drumsticks into an exotic dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles. The sauce creates a sticky glaze that coats each drumstick, while the meat underneath stays tender and moist, making it a crowd-pleasing option for family dinners or casual entertaining.

Ingredients:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup rice vinegar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Green onions for garnish
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Start by patting the drumsticks dry and placing them in a large bowl. Mix the rice vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger in a separate bowl to create the marinade. Pour half the marinade over the drumsticks and refrigerate for 2-4 hours, reserving the other half for basting.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated drumsticks on a lined baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, turning and basting with the reserved marinade every 10-15 minutes. In the final 10 minutes of cooking, mix the cornstarch with water and add to the remaining marinade. Heat this mixture in a small saucepan until it thickens, then brush it over the drumsticks for the final glaze.

For best results, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving. Let the drumsticks rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. If the sauce starts to burn during baking, tent the pan with foil to prevent excessive charring. For extra crispiness, broil the drumsticks for the final 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Mediterranean Herb-Roasted Drumsticks

Mediterranean Herb-Roasted Drumsticks transform ordinary chicken into a fragrant, flavorful meal that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. The combination of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano creates an aromatic profile that permeates the meat during roasting, while olive oil and lemon juice provide the characteristic bright notes of Mediterranean cooking.

This dish requires minimal preparation but delivers maximum flavor, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The drumsticks develop a golden-brown, crispy skin while remaining tender and juicy inside, thanks to the perfect balance of cooking temperature and time.

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, all herbs, lemon juice, salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Add the chicken drumsticks and toss until thoroughly coated with the herb mixture. Arrange the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they're not touching each other.

Roast for 35-40 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking, until the skin is crispy and golden brown, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the drumsticks rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

For best results, bring the drumsticks to room temperature 30 minutes before cooking, and pat them dry with paper towels before adding the herb mixture. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve crispier skin. If fresh herbs aren't available, dried herbs can be substituted using one-third of the amount called for fresh herbs, but the flavor won't be quite as vibrant.

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Drumsticks

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Drumsticks combine the convenience of a crockpot with the sweet and savory flavors of traditional Japanese teriyaki. This set-it-and-forget-it method transforms simple chicken drumsticks into tender, flavorful meat that falls off the bone, while creating a rich, glossy sauce that perfectly coats each piece.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the magical way the slow cooker breaks down the meat while concentrating the teriyaki flavors. As the drumsticks cook, they release their natural juices, which blend with the sauce ingredients to create a perfectly balanced combination of sweet, salty, and umami flavors.

• 8-10 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Green onions, chopped

Place chicken drumsticks in the slow cooker. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, mirin, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Pour the mixture over the drumsticks. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

During the final 30 minutes of cooking, create a slurry by mixing cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and transfer the liquid to a saucepan. Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce and simmer until thickened. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and pour the thickened sauce over it. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

For best results, arrange the drumsticks in a single layer if possible, and avoid overcrowding the slow cooker. The skin won't be crispy using this method, but if you desire a crispier exterior, you can place the cooked drumsticks under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after they're done. Watch them carefully to prevent burning, as the sugar content in the sauce can caramelize quickly.

Lemon Pepper Grilled Drumsticks

Lemon pepper drumsticks offer a perfect balance of bright citrus and bold pepper flavors, creating a dish that's both refreshing and satisfying. The combination of fresh lemon and cracked black pepper creates a classic seasoning profile that pairs exceptionally well with grilled chicken.

This recipe transforms ordinary chicken drumsticks into a flavorful main course that's ideal for summer barbecues or casual family dinners. The grilling process creates a crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender on the inside, and the citrus adds a wonderful caramelized finish to the skin.

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 lemons (juice and zest)
• 2 tablespoons black pepper, freshly cracked
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl. Mix the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, garlic, onion powder, and oregano in a separate bowl. Pour the mixture over the drumsticks and massage it into the meat, ensuring even coating. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F). Oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the drumsticks on the grill and cook for 25-30 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the skin is crispy and golden brown.

For best results, bring the marinated drumsticks to room temperature 20 minutes before grilling. If you notice flare-ups while grilling, move the drumsticks to a cooler part of the grill. Consider keeping a spray bottle of water nearby to control flames. Allow the cooked drumsticks to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to ensure the juices redistribute throughout the meat.

Tandoori-Style Chicken Drumsticks

Tandoori-style chicken drumsticks bring the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine right to your home kitchen. The signature red-orange color and deep, complex flavors come from a yogurt-based marinade packed with traditional Indian spices, creating a dish that's both visually striking and incredibly delicious.

While traditional tandoori chicken is cooked in a clay tandoor oven at extremely high temperatures, this adaptation uses standard kitchen equipment to achieve similar results. The yogurt marinade not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the meat, ensuring juicy, flavorful drumsticks with a slightly charred exterior.

Ingredients:

• 8-10 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons ginger paste
• 2 tablespoons tandoori masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Red food coloring (optional)

Mix all marinade ingredients in a large bowl until well combined. Make 2-3 deep cuts in each drumstick to allow the marinade to penetrate, then coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated drumsticks on a lined baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the outside.

For optimal results, finish the drumsticks under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to achieve that authentic tandoor-like char. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

A crucial tip for this recipe is to avoid removing excess marinade before cooking, as it creates a flavorful crust during baking. If using food coloring, add just a few drops as too much can make the dish look artificial. For best results, bring the marinated chicken to room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking, and always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Sticky Maple-Mustard Drumsticks

Sticky Maple-Mustard Drumsticks combine the natural sweetness of pure maple syrup with the tangy kick of Dijon mustard, creating a perfectly balanced glaze that coats tender chicken drumsticks. This dish transforms humble chicken legs into a mouth-watering meal that appeals to both adults and children alike.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way the glaze caramelizes during cooking, forming a sticky, flavorful coating that locks in moisture while creating an appealing golden-brown exterior. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes these drumsticks an excellent choice for family dinners, picnics, or casual entertaining.

Ingredients:

• 8-10 chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, both mustards, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and apple cider vinegar until well combined. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss until they're evenly coated with the marinade. Arrange the drumsticks on a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.

Bake for 35-40 minutes, turning and basting the drumsticks with the pan juices every 15 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and sticky. For extra caramelization, broil for the final 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

For best results, let the drumsticks marinate in the maple-mustard mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking, or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator. If you're short on time, scoring the drumsticks with a few shallow cuts before marinating will help the flavors penetrate more quickly. Always line your baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup, as the sugars in the maple syrup can become quite sticky during cooking.