These garlic butter baked chicken drumsticks are juicy, flavorful, and super easy to make! The mix of garlic and buttery goodness makes each bite a treat.
Who doesn’t love crispy skin with tender meat? I always whip up extra for leftovers—perfect for sandwiches the next day! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Drumsticks: These are perfect for baking as they remain juicy and tender. If you prefer, you can use thighs or wings. They may need different cooking times, so keep an eye on them.
Unsalted Butter: Butter gives a rich flavor. You can substitute with margarine or olive oil if you’re looking for a lighter option. Coconut oil is also a great choice for a unique taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really packs a punch! If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used instead—about 1 teaspoon for each clove—but fresh is always better for the flavor.
Dried Herbs: Dried parsley and oregano are great, but feel free to swap in your favorites like thyme or basil. Use fresh herbs if you have them—they’re vibrant and flavorful!
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a bit of heat, but if you prefer milder flavors, just skip them or use less. For a different spice, try black pepper or a dash of cayenne.
How Do I Get Crispy Chicken Skin?
If you want that crispy skin on your drumsticks, follow these steps:
- Pat Dry: First, make sure to pat the drumsticks dry. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
- High Heat: Baking at a higher temperature (425°F) cooks the skin quickly and crisps it up.
- Broil for Last Minute: Broiling at the end for a few minutes helps achieve that golden-brown crust. Just watch closely!
- Even Coating: Coating the chicken evenly with the garlic butter mixture ensures every bite is full of flavor and helps with browning.
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra crispiness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation and approximately 35-40 minutes for baking. With a quick broil at the end, you’ll have scrumptious, crispy chicken ready in around an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will help the chicken skin become crispy and golden. To make cleanup a breeze, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried oregano, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). This flavorful mixture will be what makes the chicken so delicious!
3. Get the Chicken Ready:
Take your chicken drumsticks and pat them dry with paper towels. Drying them off will help the skin crisp up nicely during baking. Nobody wants soggy chicken!
4. Coat the Drumsticks:
Lay the drumsticks on your prepared baking sheet. Brush or spoon the garlic butter mixture all over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece well. If you’re using olive oil, drizzle it on for that extra crunch!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let the chicken bake for about 35-40 minutes. Halfway through, remember to turn the drumsticks to ensure they cook evenly and get beautifully browned.
6. Broil for Extra Crispiness:
If you like super crispy skin, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. This little step is so worth it!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle. For an extra touch, garnish with some fresh parsley! Now they’re ready to enjoy with your favorite sides.
Dig into these flavorful and juicy garlic butter baked chicken drumsticks—easy to make and absolutely delicious!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead of Drumsticks?
Yes, bone-in chicken thighs are a great substitute! They may take a little longer to cook, typically about 40-45 minutes, but they’ll also be juicy and flavorful.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Drumsticks?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Before Cooking?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken in the garlic butter mixture for a few hours or overnight can enhance the flavors even further. Just be sure to pat them dry before baking for that perfect crispiness!
Is It Necessary to Broil the Drumsticks?
Broiling is not necessary, but it’s highly recommended for achieving extra crispy skin. If you prefer a softer texture, you can skip the broiling step and enjoy them as is!