Flavorful Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Old Bay Seasoning

Oh boy, let me tell you about these baked chicken drumsticks with Old Bay seasoning… They’re just so flavorful and really remind me of family gatherings, where, honestly, we’d go back for seconds—sometimes even thirds! The crispy skin, seasoned just right, makes every bite feel like a little celebration. Seriously, if you love chicken, these drumsticks are a must-try for any meal you’re planning. Picture this: golden brown, juicy inside, and that oh-so-iconic Old Bay flavor… it’s hard not to drool a bit, right?

Why You’ll Crave It

• The skin gets beautifully crispy while the inside stays juicy… it’s like a textural dream come true.
• Old Bay seasoning is just magical; it adds a kick that’ll make your taste buds dance.
• You only need a few ingredients—so it’s simple to whip up on a busy weeknight.
• Everyone in my family fights over the last one… it’s like a delicious battle every time.
• They’re super versatile; pair them with anything from coleslaw to mac and cheese, and you have a complete meal!

Honestly, the first time I made this, I was so nervous about the seasoning… but wow, it turned out amazing!

What You’ll Need

• Chicken Drumsticks: 10 pieces, the perfect amount for a family meal or some great leftovers!
• Old Bay Seasoning: 2 tablespoons, because, honestly, you can’t go wrong with this stuff!
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, just to enhance all those yummy flavors.
• Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon, freshly cracked is always better…
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, adds a nice little aroma.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, to help that skin get all crispy and golden!
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, optional but really brightens it all up!

Easy How-To

Get Everything Ready

First things first—preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This heat makes everything get nice and crispy… trust me! Then, rinse those chicken drumsticks under cold water. I like to pat them dry with paper towels after… it makes a real difference when it comes to that golden skin. Now, for seasoning… place the drumsticks in a big bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and then sprinkle on that Old Bay seasoning, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss it up until they’re all coated… I sometimes get a little messy here, but it’s all part of the fun!

Good to Know

• If you don’t have Old Bay, mix up some celery salt, paprika, and black pepper for a similar vibe.
• Want extra crispy skin? Use a wire rack over your baking sheet. It really helps with air circulation!

Serving Ideas

• Serve them hot right out of the oven… with a side of coleslaw and maybe some corn on the cob for that summer feel!

Top Tricks

• For juicy chicken, remember that resting it for a few minutes after baking helps keep all the juices in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other seasonings instead of Old Bay?

For sure! Feel free to switch it up… maybe some Italian herbs or even barbecue seasoning—whatever floats your boat!

How long should I bake the drumsticks?

About 40 to 45 minutes at 425°F (220°C) should do the trick—but you want that crispy, golden look and internal temp of 165°F (74°C).

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Nope, not necessary, but if you have time, marinating can really up the flavor game!

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?

Absolutely, grilling is a great option! Just keep an eye on the time and adjust as needed.

What should I serve with baked chicken drumsticks?

All kinds of stuff! A fresh salad, some roasted veggies, or even some creamy mac and cheese makes for a lovely spread.

—

Anyway, the baked chicken drumsticks with Old Bay seasoning are just a crowd-pleaser, aren’t they? They bring warmth and comfort to any table… and you might just find yourself craving them again and again! So gather up those ingredients and get cooking. Bon appétit!