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Overhead view of several Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks arranged on a rustic metal tray, showing the crackly texture of the skin and garlic granules.

Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Crispy Smoked Paprika Skin

Achieve restaurant-quality crispy skin with these Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks. Coated in a smoky rub of paprika and garlic, these drumsticks are roasted to golden-brown perfection on a single sheet pan for an easy, high-protein dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Recipe Ingredients
  • 2.5 lbs Chicken Drumsticks 1.1 kg, skin-on
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil 30ml
  • 1.5 tbsp Smoked Paprika 10g
  • 1 tbsp Garlic Granules 10g
  • 1 tsp Sea Salt 6g
  • 1 tsp Cracked Black Pepper 2g
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley 5g, finely chopped

Equipment

  • 1 Rustic dark metal baking sheet
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl
  • Paper towels For drying the skin

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat chicken drumsticks thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove all surface moisture.
  2. Toss chicken in a bowl with olive oil. Combine smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub the mixture onto the chicken until heavily coated.
Cooking
  1. Arrange drumsticks on a dark metal baking sheet. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway, until skin is deeply blistered and golden-brown.
  2. Let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with finely chopped fresh parsley before serving directly from the tray.

Notes

Ensure chicken isn't crowded on the tray to allow for maximum airflow.
Cook to an internal temperature of 175°F for the best texture.