20 Crispy Chicken Drumstick Recipes for Every Occasion

recipesforlife

April 3, 2025

When it comes to indulgent and satisfying snacks, few things beat a plate of crispy, juicy chicken drumsticks. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy appetizer or a main event, these 20 mouth-watering recipes have got you covered. From classic comfort foods to bold international flavors, we’ve gathered the crispiest, most flavorful ideas to tantalize your taste buds.

In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring techniques and ingredients that will elevate your chicken drumstick game. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, sweet, or savory, our recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So, let’s get started and discover the ultimate list of crispy chicken drumstick recipes perfect for every occasion!

Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can create deliciously glazed chicken drumsticks that are sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place the chicken drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Brush the honey-garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Drumsticks
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these crispy and addictive drumsticks, infused with the bold flavors of Korea. This recipe combines the crunch of fried chicken with the heat of gochujang sauce and the sweetness of honey.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup gochujang sauce (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge drumsticks in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry drumsticks in batches for 5-6 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang sauce and honey.
6. Toss fried drumsticks with the spicy glaze until well coated.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
Brighten up your grill game with this citrusy and aromatic recipe that combines the flavors of lemon, herbs, and grilled chicken drumsticks.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken drumsticks to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Grill chicken drumsticks for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes

Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your fried chicken game with this simple recipe that yields crispy and juicy drumsticks. With a tangy buttermilk marinade and a crunchy coating, these drumsticks are perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

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

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

BBQ Glazed Smoked Chicken Drumsticks

BBQ Glazed Smoked Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your BBQ game with these tender and flavorful chicken drumsticks smothered in a sweet and sticky glaze.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, brown sugar, vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken drumsticks in the smoker, close the lid, and cook for 2 hours.
4. After 2 hours, brush the glaze all over the drumsticks and continue to smoke for another 30 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Chicken Drumsticks

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful drumsticks that combine the richness of parmesan cheese and the pungency of garlic. Perfect for a quick appetizer or post-game snack, these roasted chicken drumsticks are sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and grated parmesan cheese.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange drumsticks in a single layer.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks, then sprinkle the garlic-parmesan mixture evenly among them.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make recipe for Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Drumsticks. With a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, these drumsticks are sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger.
3. Place the chicken drumsticks in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the glaze over the drumsticks, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the drumsticks on the sheet in a single layer.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and caramelized.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Buffalo Style Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

Buffalo Style Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks
Get ready to level up your snacking game with these crispy and spicy air-fried chicken drumsticks, infused with the bold flavors of buffalo wings.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together buffalo sauce and melted butter.
3. Add chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss until coated evenly.
4. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the drumsticks.
5. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil.
6. Place 2-3 drumsticks in the air fryer basket (depending on size).
7. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
8. Repeat with remaining drumsticks.

Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes total

Jamaican Jerk Chicken Drumsticks

Jamaican Jerk Chicken Drumsticks
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this flavorful and aromatic Jamaican Jerk Chicken Drumsticks recipe! This Caribbean-inspired dish is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl and toss with olive oil until coated.
4. Sprinkle the jerk mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Maple Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Maple Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the richness of maple syrup and the tanginess of mustard. These baked chicken drumsticks are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

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

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Drumsticks

Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your chicken game with this refreshing twist on classic drumsticks! A tangy and savory marinade, featuring Greek yogurt as the star ingredient, will leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
2. Add chicken drumsticks to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Remove drumsticks from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Drumsticks

Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and spicy twist on classic chicken drumsticks. The combination of tangy lime, savory chili powder, and a hint of brown sugar creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lime juice, honey, chili powder, and cumin.
3. Add chicken drumsticks to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
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 and slightly caramelized.
6. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and cilantro (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Herb Crusted Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Herb Crusted Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful and crispy oven-baked chicken drumsticks, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or party appetizer. This recipe is easy to make and packed with fresh herbs.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl and toss with the herb mixture until evenly coated.
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, flipping halfway.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side (if using).

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Cajun Spiced Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Cajun Spiced Fried Chicken Drumsticks
Get ready to spice up your snack time with these finger-lickin’ Cajun Spiced Fried Chicken Drumsticks!

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 shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, 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. 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 the 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

Soy Ginger Braised Chicken Drumsticks

Soy Ginger Braised Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your chicken game with this Asian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, brown sugar, chicken broth, water, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Smoky Paprika Roasted Chicken Drumsticks

Smoky Paprika Roasted Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of paprika with a smoky kick. These drumsticks are perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or as a satisfying side dish.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
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

Sticky Honey Sriracha Chicken Drumsticks

Sticky Honey Sriracha Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with these Sticky Honey Sriracha Chicken Drumsticks! With a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Add chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the sticky mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. Arrange drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
6. Brush with additional honey if desired during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

A classic comfort food, these garlic butter baked chicken drumsticks are easy to make and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in chicken drumsticks
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
4. Place chicken drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the drumsticks, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Five-Spice Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Five-Spice Glazed Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your chicken game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of five-spice powder with a sweet and sticky glaze.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, five-spice powder, and brown sugar.
3. Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl and pour the glaze over them. Toss until coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Drizzle the vegetable oil over the drumsticks and sprinkle with salt.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Panko Crusted Oven-Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Panko Crusted Oven-Fried Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with this simple and flavorful recipe that yields crispy, juicy chicken drumsticks. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Dip each chicken drumstick into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in the crispiest, most delicious chicken drumstick recipes ever! From classic comfort foods to international twists and modern innovations, this collection of 20 mouthwatering recipes has something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet and savory, spicy and bold, or simply finger-lickin’ good, these crispy chicken drumsticks are sure to please. With a range of cooking methods and flavor combinations, you’ll never run out of ideas for your next meal, party, or potluck. So go ahead, get creative, and dig in!

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