The Paprika Baked Chicken Drumsticks are a personal favorite in my home, especially during those busy weeknights when I crave something warm and flavorful. I remember the first time I made these drumsticks for a family gathering; the aroma of paprika and garlic filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in. As I pulled them from the oven, the golden-brown skin looked so inviting, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. What makes this dish so special is not just the ease of preparation, but the depth of flavor that comes from a simple marinade of olive oil and spices. It’s a dish that brings people together, creating memories around the dinner table, and it’s one that I find myself making time and time again.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
23 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Whisk, Baking Sheet, Oven

Why Try This Paprika Baked Chicken Drumsticks

It’s Incredibly Flavorful

Every bite of these Paprika Baked Chicken Drumsticks bursts with flavor. The paprika gives a beautiful color and a mild, smoky taste that keeps you coming back for more. Coupled with the garlicky marinade, these drumsticks are anything but bland.

Simple Ingredients

With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this dish without a trip to the grocery store. It’s a great way to utilize what you have on hand while still impressing your family or guests.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these drumsticks fit the bill. They are versatile enough to serve at any occasion, making them a staple recipe in my kitchen.

Quick Cleanup

Using parchment paper or a roasting pan makes cleanup a breeze. After enjoying your meal, you won’t dread the washing up, which is always a win in my book!

Great for Meal Prep

These drumsticks are perfect for meal prepping. You can marinate them ahead of time and store them in the fridge, making weeknight dinners easier and more efficient.

Crispy Skin Every Time

With the right technique, you can achieve that perfectly crispy skin that everyone loves. Just a little basting towards the end of cooking transforms the texture and ensures they are juicy and tender inside.

Key Ingredients for Paprika Baked Chicken Drumsticks

The ingredients for Paprika Baked Chicken Drumsticks are simple yet powerful. Each component plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. The hero of this recipe is the chicken drumsticks, which are not only juicy but also perfect for soaking up the delicious marinade. The olive oil acts as a base, allowing the flavors of the paprika, garlic, and lemon zest to meld together beautifully. This combination creates a dish that’s enjoyable for both kids and adults alike.

10 chicken drumsticks – The main protein source in this dish, chicken drumsticks are succulent and flavorful, making them ideal for baking.
3 tablespoons olive oil – A key ingredient in the marinade that helps to keep the chicken moist while adding richness.
3 teaspoons paprika – Provides a beautiful color and a mild depth of flavor, essential to this dish.
2 cloves garlic (crushed) – Adds an aromatic punch that complements the spices perfectly.
Zest of 1 lemon – Brings brightness and a hint of acidity that balances the richness of the chicken.
Salt (to taste) – Enhances all the flavors, ensuring a delicious outcome.

How to Prepare Paprika Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Preparing Paprika Baked Chicken Drumsticks is straightforward and makes for a delightful cooking experience. Follow these steps for perfectly seasoned and roasted chicken that your whole family will love. Let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). A properly preheated oven is essential for achieving that crispy skin we all desire.
Line a roasting pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This step is optional but recommended for less mess.
Arrange the chicken drumsticks in a single layer in the pan, ensuring there’s a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, paprika, garlic, lemon zest, and salt. Make sure it’s well combined to create a flavorful marinade for the chicken.
Pour the marinade over the drumsticks, and either use a brush or your hands to spread it evenly over the chicken. Ensure every piece is well coated.
Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. If you prefer crispier skin, baste the drumsticks with the pan juices halfway through the cooking time.
At 40 minutes, switch the oven to grill (broil) mode for the last 5 minutes. This step will enhance the crispiness of the skin. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Once done, take the drumsticks out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains moist and flavorful.
Finally, serve your Paprika Baked Chicken Drumsticks and enjoy the deliciousness with your favorite side dishes.

Things Worth Knowing

Pat Dry Before Marinating: If your drumsticks are moist after unpacking, use a paper towel to pat them dry. This ensures the marinade adheres better and promotes crispier skin.
Preheat to the Right Temperature: Always preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) before cooking. A hot, properly preheated oven is essential for even cooking and achieving the desired texture.
Use a Baking Rack: Placing the drumsticks on a baking rack set over a lined baking sheet allows hot air to circulate evenly, resulting in crispier skin all around.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For more tender meat, consider cooking dark meat portions like drumsticks to 185-195°F (85-90°C).
Rest Before Serving: After removing from the oven, let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

Customization Ideas

If you’re looking to personalize your Paprika Baked Chicken Drumsticks, consider these customization tips. Each option can enhance the flavor or presentation of the dish.

Storage: To store leftovers, place the drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze baked drumsticks for up to three months. Ensure they are cooled completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
Serving with Dips: Try serving with a side of ranch or garlic sauce for dipping—adds a tasty twist!
Herb Variations: Feel free to add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for an extra burst of flavor.
Side Dishes: Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the chicken.
Spicy Version: For a kick, add some cayenne pepper to the marinade. Adjust to your spice tolerance!
Kid-Friendly Version: Omit the lemon zest for a milder flavor that kids will enjoy.

Serving Options for Paprika Baked Chicken Drumsticks

When it comes to serving Paprika Baked Chicken Drumsticks, there are so many delicious options to consider. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable:

With Rice or Quinoa: Serve the drumsticks over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up those fantastic juices.
Seasonal Vegetables: Pair with seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to add color and nutrition to your plate.
Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette can complement the savory drumsticks perfectly.
Lunchboxes: These drumsticks make excellent leftovers for lunch; simply pack them with some fresh veggies for a healthy meal.
Picnic Option: They can also be enjoyed cold at picnics or outdoor gatherings. Just make sure to keep them chilled if it’s warm outside.
For Special Occasions: They’re also great served at gatherings or potlucks. Everyone loves a well-cooked chicken drumstick!
Storage Tips: Don’t forget to store any leftovers in an airtight container; they can be enjoyed cold or reheated the next day.

FAQ

Absolutely! While Paprika Baked Chicken Drumsticks are delicious, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or wings as well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may require a bit longer to cook through, while wings could cook faster. The key is to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

To store leftovers of your Paprika Baked Chicken Drumsticks, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure they cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be enjoyed later, reheated or cold in salads or sandwiches.

Yes! If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to the marinade for your Paprika Baked Chicken Drumsticks. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your spice preference. This will give your chicken that extra kick without overpowering the delicious flavors of the paprika and garlic.

To achieve extra crispy skin on your Paprika Baked Chicken Drumsticks, consider basting them halfway through the cooking process with the pan juices. Additionally, switching the oven to broil for the last few minutes can help enhance the crispiness. Just keep a close watch to prevent burning!

Conclusion

The Paprika Baked Chicken Drumsticks truly stand out for their rich flavor and ease of preparation. I encourage you to try this recipe, as it’s not only satisfying but also brings a comforting warmth to the table. Perfect for any occasion, these drumsticks will surely become a favorite in your home as they have in mine!