Spicy Drumsticks (5 Ingredients)
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
40 mins
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Total Time
50 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
286 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Spicy Drumsticks (5 Ingredients)
Description
Spicy Drumsticks are made by coating chicken drumsticks with a paste of olive oil, kosher salt, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. The drumsticks are baked in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F until fully cooked and juices run clear, about 40 minutes. The surface develops a spiced, slightly crispy crust from the seasoning and roasting.
The blend of chili powder and cayenne adds moderate heat and smoky notes, balanced by salt and olive oil which keep the chicken moist. The cooking method ensures the drumsticks cook evenly with the option to loosely cover them with foil if they begin to darken prematurely.
They can be served garnished with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes, adding fresh herbal notes and more heat. These drumsticks make a spicy main dish suitable for casual meals. Leftovers keep well refrigerated and can be eaten cold or gently reheated.
Notes mention the option of adding a small amount of sugar to enhance browning and flavor via Maillard reaction, but the recipe excludes sugar for those who prefer no added sweeteners. Proper reheating and storage guidance helps maintain quality for up to four days.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumstick medium, 4 ounces each
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt or ½ teaspoon of any other salt, including Morton kosher salt, Diamond Crystal brand
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Optional garnishes:
- 2 tablespoons parsley chopped
- Pinch red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with high-heat-resistant parchment paper.
- Wipe the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Prepare the rub: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, kosher salt, chili powder, and cayenne pepper to create a paste. Pour the paste over the chicken pieces and, using your hands or a pastry brush, coat the chicken on all sides.
- Bake the drumsticks until cooked through and the juices run clear (their internal temperature as measured by a food thermometer not touching the bone should reach 165ºF), for about 40 minutes. Check them after the first 30 minutes and loosely cover them with foil if they seem to be darkening too much on top.
- If you wish, garnish the chicken with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes, then serve.
Notes
- Adding a teaspoon of brown sugar to the rub can enhance flavor and browning but is omitted here by choice.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 4 days; reheat covered in microwave or uncovered in a 350°F oven.
- Spicy drumsticks are also enjoyable when eaten cold, a classic picnic option.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 286 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 2drumsticks | |
| Calories | 286kcal | 14% |
| Protein | 28g | 56% |
| Fat | 18g | 28% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Sodium | 721mg | 30% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.