20 Flavorful Chicken Drumstick Recipes for Every Occasion

When it comes to finger-lickin’ good meals, few options are as satisfying as a plate of juicy, crispy chicken drumsticks. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just need a quick and easy dinner solution, these versatile little morsels can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of 20 flavorful chicken drumstick recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

From sweet and sticky glazes to spicy and savory seasonings, we’ve got you covered with a diverse range of ideas to get your creative juices flowing. Whether you’re in the mood for classic comfort food or something more exotic, our roundup has everything you need to take your chicken drumstick game to the next level.

Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your chicken game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory flavor of garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these glazed drumsticks are sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, and salt.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange drumsticks in a single layer.
4. Brush the honey glaze evenly over the drumsticks.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Spicy Cajun Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Spicy Cajun Fried Chicken Drumsticks
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic fried chicken with this spicy Cajun recipe!

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
3. Dip each drumstick into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the dry mixture to coat. Place coated drumsticks on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry drumsticks in batches for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Drumsticks

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Drumsticks
Brighten up your mealtime with these flavorful and aromatic drumsticks, infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the drumsticks in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks with Sesame Seeds

Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks with Sesame Seeds
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory teriyaki chicken drumstick recipe, topped with a nutty sesame seed crust. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun appetizer for your next gathering!

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
3. Add chicken drumsticks and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove drumsticks from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Sprinkle both sides of drumsticks with sesame seeds and garlic powder.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

BBQ Smoked Chicken Drumsticks

BBQ Smoked Chicken Drumsticks
Get ready to elevate your backyard barbecue game with this mouthwatering recipe for BBQ smoked chicken drumsticks. Tender, juicy, and packed with a deep smoky flavor, these drumsticks are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/4 cup BBQ rub (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ rub, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Pat dry the drumsticks with paper towels. Sprinkle the dry rub mixture evenly over both sides of the drumsticks.
4. Place the drumsticks in the smoker, close the lid, and cook for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. During the last 30 minutes, brush the drumsticks with apple cider vinegar.
6. Remove from heat, let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours

Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with these crispy oven-baked chicken drumsticks, perfect for a quick and satisfying treat or party appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken drumstick in the beaten egg, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip the floured drumsticks in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each piece.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until crispy and cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks
A flavorful twist on traditional chicken drumsticks, this recipe combines the savory goodness of garlic and parmesan cheese for a delicious snack or main course.

Ingredients:
• 4-6 chicken drumsticks
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each chicken drumstick into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of each drumstick.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Sticky Soy Ginger Chicken Drumsticks

Sticky Soy Ginger Chicken Drumsticks
Sticky Soy Ginger Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory recipe! Crunchy chicken drumsticks smothered in a sticky soy ginger glaze will have you hooked from the first bite.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, rice vinegar, and vegetable oil.
3. Add chicken drumsticks to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove drumsticks from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Brush drumsticks with additional glaze during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Jamaican Jerk Chicken Drumsticks

Jamaican Jerk Chicken Drumsticks
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this spicy and aromatic jerk chicken drumstick recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day snack.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, olive oil, lime juice, and garlic.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Buffalo Style Chicken Drumsticks

Buffalo Style Chicken Drumsticks
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these mouth-watering Buffalo-style chicken drumsticks, smothered in a spicy and tangy sauce. Perfect for game day gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together hot sauce and melted butter.
3. Add chicken drumsticks to the sauce mixture and toss until coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange drumsticks in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing (if desired). Enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Curry Coconut Chicken Drumsticks

Curry Coconut Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with these tender and aromatic curry coconut chicken drumsticks, perfect for a quick bite or party appetizer. With the combination of creamy coconut milk, warm Indian spices, and crispy fried chicken, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, curry powder, ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken drumsticks to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place drumsticks on it.
6. Drizzle coconut milk over the drumsticks, then sprinkle with vegetable oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Sweet and Sour Chicken Drumsticks

Sweet and Sour Chicken Drumsticks
This sweet and sour chicken drumsticks recipe is a classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family meal. The combination of crispy fried chicken, tangy sweet and sour sauce, and crunchy vegetables makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– Cooking oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each drumstick into the beaten eggs and then coat in the cornstarch mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the drumsticks until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Remove the drumsticks from the oil and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve with sweet and sour sauce and mixed vegetables.

Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes

Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of maple syrup with the tanginess of mustard. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken drumsticks in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through cooking time.
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Herbed Buttermilk Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Herbed Buttermilk Fried Chicken Drumsticks
A classic Southern favorite gets a flavorful twist with the addition of fresh herbs and tangy buttermilk. These crispy fried chicken drumsticks are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken drumsticks to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove drumsticks from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Dredge drumsticks in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Fry drumsticks for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Thai Peanut Chicken Drumsticks

Thai Peanut Chicken Drumsticks
A flavorful twist on classic chicken drumsticks, this recipe combines the richness of peanuts with the bold spices of Thailand. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, curry paste, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade, tossing to coat.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the drumsticks in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, shaking halfway.
6. Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the top and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Smoked Paprika Chicken Drumsticks

Smoked Paprika Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your chicken game with this smoky and savory recipe that combines the richness of smoked paprika with the tenderness of chicken drumsticks. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a snack to impress your friends.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Rosemary and Garlic Roasted Chicken Drumsticks

Rosemary and Garlic Roasted Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful rosemary and garlic roasted chicken drumsticks, perfect for a quick dinner or party appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the drumsticks and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
4. Place the drumsticks in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the garlic-rosemary mixture evenly over the drumsticks.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Tips: For extra crispy skin, broil the drumsticks for an additional 2-3 minutes after roasting. Serve warm and enjoy!

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

Chili Lime Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
A flavorful twist on traditional grilled chicken, these Chili Lime Grilled Chicken Drumsticks are perfect for a quick and delicious meal or snack. With a tangy and spicy kick, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken drumsticks to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Classic Southern Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Classic Southern Fried Chicken Drumsticks
Get ready to taste a staple of Southern cuisine with this crispy and juicy recipe!

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each drumstick into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry drumsticks in batches for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Orange Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Orange Glazed Chicken Drumsticks
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a game-day gathering, these orange glazed chicken drumsticks are a crowd-pleaser. The combination of juicy chicken, sticky glaze, and citrusy flavor is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together marmalade, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, orange juice, and ginger.
3. Add chicken drumsticks to the glaze mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange drumsticks in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Summary

Get ready to elevate your chicken drumstick game with these 20 flavorful recipes for every occasion! From sweet and savory glazes to spicy kicks, we’ve got you covered. Try Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Drumsticks for a classic comfort food twist or Spicy Cajun Fried Chicken Drumsticks for a bold and spicy flavor. For a lighter option, opt for Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Drumsticks or Rosemary and Garlic Roasted Chicken Drumsticks. And don’t forget the international flair with recipes like Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks with Sesame Seeds, Jamaican Jerk Chicken Drumsticks, or Thai Peanut Chicken Drumsticks. There’s something for everyone in this delicious collection!

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