Spicy Drumsticks (5 Ingredients)

User Reviews

5

54 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    10 mins

  • Cook Time

    40 mins

  • Total Time

    50 mins

  • Servings

    4 servings

  • Calories

    286 kcal

  • Course

    Main Course

  • Cuisine

    American

Spicy Drumsticks (5 Ingredients)

Spicy Drumsticks use a simple rub of olive oil, kosher salt, chili powder, and cayenne pepper to coat medium chicken drumsticks. Baked until cooked through, they develop a spiced exterior while remaining juicy inside. This recipe balances heat with straightforward ingredients and allows garnishing with parsley and red pepper flakes for extra color and spice.

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.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 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

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with high-heat-resistant parchment paper.
  2. Wipe the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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 Details
Serving 2drumsticks Calories 286kcal (14%) Protein 28g (56%) Fat 18g (28%) Saturated Fat 4g (20%) Sodium 721mg (30%)

Nutrition 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.

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54 reviews
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