Is it better to bake drumsticks at 350 or 400?

We prefer to bake chicken drumsticks at 400 to lock in the moisture and create a crispy skin. Although you can bake this easy chicken leg recipe at 350 degrees and still have a delicious meal, you're much more likely to have softer skin that won't crunch when you bite through it. That golden brown, perfectly seasoned, crispy skin is the best part!

How long does it take for drumsticks to cook in the oven?

Raw chicken legs usually bake within 40-45 minutes, although the cooking time depends on the size of the legs. It's best to use an internal thermometer to ensure the meat is fully cooked instead of watching the time. Your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F before you remove it from the oven.

Should drumsticks be covered or uncovered?

There are differing opinions on this question, but if you like crispy skin, it's so important to leave your chicken legs uncovered. Otherwise, the aluminum will hold in the excess moisture and cause the skin to soften instead of crisping up. The chicken will still taste great, but the texture won't be quite as enjoyable. For the best results (and the crispiest chicken skin), bake your favorite chicken drumstick recipes uncovered and at a high heat.

Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Name: Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Prep time: 1 h 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 chicken drumsticks, bone in and skin-on (about 2 pounds); 1 tablespoon avocado oil; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon allspice powder; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Description

These Baked Chicken Drumsticks are the ideal dinner for a busy weeknight. Marinate some inexpensive chicken legs in a little oil and everyday spices, then bake them in a hot oven until they have crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat that just starts to fall apart. They're sure to be a new family favorite!

Ingredients

8 chicken drumsticks, bone in and skin-on (about 2 pounds)
1 tablespoon avocado oil
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon allspice powder
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

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Instructions

Use a paper towel to pat the chicken drumsticks completely dry.
Place the drumsticks into a large Ziploc bag or bowl. Add the oil and all the seasoning including paprika, allspice, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Press the air out of the bag and seal tightly. Press the seasoning around the chicken drumsticks to coat evenly. Let the drumsticks marinate for at least 1 hour or refrigerate overnight.
Preheat the oven to 400 F.
Arrange the marinated chicken drumsticks on a 9x13-inch casserole pan or a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 40-45 minutes until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature for the chicken reaches 165 F, as read on a meat thermometer.
Optionally, turn on broiler on HI and cook for another 5 minutes until nicely charred. Keep a close eye on the drumsticks to make sure they don’t burn as things can burn quickly under the broiler.
Brush the drumsticks with pan juices, if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

How to store: Place your leftover chicken legs in an airtight container in the fridge. They'll keep for approximately 3-4 days.

How to reheat: Although you can microwave your juicy chicken legs for a quick meal, they'll taste better and have crispier skin if you bake them again. Reheat in a 375F preheated oven for 5-10 minutes or set your air fryer to 375 and bake them for 3-5 minutes or until they are fully reheated.

How to freeze: Store your leftover baked chicken legs in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag for several months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Chicken
Method: Bake
Cuisine: American