The Ultimate Guide to Crispy Skin Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Step 2: Prepping and Seasoning

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is non-negotiable.
  2. Final Pat Dry: If you didn’t do the dry brine, take your drumsticks and pat them incredibly dry with paper towels. If you did the dry brine, you’ll notice the skin is already tight and dry to the touch.
  3. Apply the Rub: In a small bowl, mix all the dry rub ingredients: the remaining salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne. Drizzle the  drumsticks with the oil and massage it gently into the skin. This helps the rub stick and promotes browning. Now, generously and evenly sprinkle the dry rub mixture over every part of the drumsticks.

Step 3: The Two-Stage Baking Technique

This method ensures the fat renders without burning the skin.

      • Arrange the drumsticks on the wire rack placed over the baking sheet. Using a wire rack is crucial as it allows hot air to circulate around the entire  drumstick, cooking it evenly and preventing the bottom from getting soggy.
      • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). This initial phase starts to cook the  meat gently and begins the fat-rendering process.Stage One: Rendering the Fat (Lower Heat)
  2. Stage Two: Crisping the Skin (High Heat)
    • After 25 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C).
    • Continue baking for another 20-25 minutes. Keep a close eye on them during this phase. The skin will begin to bubble and turn a deep, golden brown. The drumsticks are done when the skin is crackly and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat (without touching the bone) reads 175-180°F (79-82°C). Don’t fear this temperature; dark meat remains juicy at a higher internal temperature than breast meat.

Step 4: Resting and Serving

  1. Rest: Once out of the oven, transfer the drumsticks to a clean plate or platter and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is succulent.
  2. Serve: Serve your masterpiece immediately while the skin is at its crispiest! They are fantastic on their own, or with a side of cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing.
  3. Serving Suggestions & Final Tips

These crispy drumsticks are incredibly versatile. Serve them with:

    • Classic Sides: Creamy mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or corn on the cob.
    • Lighter Options: A fresh green salad, roasted broccoli, or quinoa.
    • Comfort Food Pairings: Mac and cheese, baked beans, or biscuits.