20 Spicy Drumstick Chicken Recipes with a Twist

recipesforlife

April 14, 2025

Are you tired of the same old boring chicken recipes? Look no further! In this article, we’re going to spice things up with 20 delicious and unique drumstick chicken recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From classic buffalo wings to sweet and spicy Korean gochujang, these drumsticks are packed with flavor and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, our list of recipes has something for everyone. With a range of flavors and cooking methods, from baking and grilling to frying and slow-cooking, there’s never been a better time to get creative in the kitchen.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into the world of spicy drumstick chicken and discover some mouth-watering recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance!

Crispy Baked Spicy Drumsticks

Crispy Baked Spicy Drumsticks
Add a kick to your snack time with these crispy baked spicy drumsticks that are easy to make and packed with flavor!

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Frank’s RedHot sauce and olive oil.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spicy mixture.
4. Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, and salt over the drumsticks; toss again to combine.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through cooking time.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Tips:

– For extra crispy skin, broil the drumsticks for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
– Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy as is!

Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with these sticky and sweet Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken Drumsticks, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Add chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss until fully coated with the glaze.
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.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Drumsticks

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the perfect blend of savory garlic and melted parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick appetizer or game-day gathering!

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and olive oil.
3. Place drumsticks in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the garlic-olive oil mixture evenly onto both sides of the drumsticks.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top of each drumstick.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Slow Cooker BBQ Drumstick Delight

Slow Cooker BBQ Drumstick Delight
Transform your drumsticks into fall-off-the-bone tender and juicy BBQ treats with minimal effort! This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal without much fuss.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in drumsticks
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the drumsticks in the slow cooker and pour the BBQ sauce mixture over them.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove the drumsticks from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Lemon Pepper Grilled Drumsticks

Lemon Pepper Grilled Drumsticks
Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner, these lemon pepper grilled drumsticks are a flavorful and aromatic treat.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, black pepper, lemon zest, and garlic powder.
3. Brush both sides of the drumsticks with olive oil, then coat evenly with the lemon-pepper mixture.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Grill drumsticks for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes

Buffalo Style Fried Drumsticks

Buffalo Style Fried Drumsticks
Experience the classic flavors of Buffalo wings in a new way with these crispy fried drumsticks smothered in spicy sauce.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Buffalo wing sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Chopped celery and blue cheese dressing for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each drumstick in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry drumsticks for 5-6 minutes per side, or until crispy and cooked through.
5. Remove fried drumsticks from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain.
6. Toss drumsticks with Buffalo wing sauce while still warm.
7. Serve hot with chopped celery and blue cheese dressing if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with these sticky and flavorful chicken drumsticks, smothered in a sweet teriyaki glaze. Perfect for game day gatherings or quick weeknight meals.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Place chicken drumsticks in a large bowl and toss with the glaze until coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Smoky Paprika and Herb Drumsticks

Smoky Paprika and Herb Drumsticks
A flavorful twist on traditional drumsticks, these Smoky Paprika and Herb Drumsticks are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day snack. The combination of smoky paprika, fresh herbs, and crispy chicken is sure to please.

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken drumsticks to the bowl 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.
6. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top of the drumsticks before serving.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Korean Gochujang Drumsticks

Korean Gochujang Drumsticks
Experience the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with these sticky and savory drumsticks, marinated in a sweet and spicy gochujang sauce.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the drumsticks to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and caramelized.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Cajun Spiced Fried Drumsticks

Cajun Spiced Fried Drumsticks
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional fried drumsticks! This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with crispy, crunchy goodness.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 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 (if using), 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 Cajun spice mixture to coat evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5. Fry drumsticks for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Sticky Maple Mustard Drumsticks

Sticky Maple Mustard Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with these Sticky Maple Mustard Drumsticks, perfect for a quick appetizer or party favor. The combination of maple syrup, mustard, and spices creates a sticky and savory coating that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking spray or oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Line a baking sheet with cooking spray or oil. Arrange drumsticks in a single layer.
4. Brush the sticky glaze evenly over the drumsticks.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Thai Sweet Chili Drumsticks

Thai Sweet Chili Drumsticks
Add a sweet and spicy twist to your chicken drumsticks with this Thai-inspired recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing snack.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade and toss 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, flipping halfway.
6. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Jamaican Jerk Chicken Drumsticks

Jamaican Jerk Chicken Drumsticks
Savor the bold flavors of Jamaica with these mouth-watering chicken drumsticks, marinated in a spicy jerk seasoning blend.

Ingredients:
• 4-6 chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 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 jerk seasoning, lime juice, garlic, brown sugar, and ginger.
3. Add chicken drumsticks to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil; spray with cooking spray. Arrange drumsticks on the sheet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Garlic Butter Herb Baked Drumsticks

Garlic Butter Herb Baked Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter and the freshness of herbs.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 drumsticks
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, parsley, and dill.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place drumsticks on the sheet, leaving some space between each.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the drumsticks, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Tandoori Style Grilled Drumsticks

Tandoori Style Grilled Drumsticks
Experience the bold flavors of Indian cuisine with this simple recipe for Tandoori Style Grilled Drumsticks. Marinated in a blend of spices, yogurt, and lemon juice, these drumsticks are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garam masala
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for brushing

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade and mix until they are fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
5. Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Brush the drumsticks with vegetable oil and season with salt.
7. Grill the drumsticks for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes

Pineapple Soy Glazed Drumsticks

Pineapple Soy Glazed Drumsticks
Transform your drumsticks with the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors! This simple recipe combines the tanginess of pineapple with the depth of soy sauce for a truly unique glaze.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and salt.
3. Place drumsticks in a shallow dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of each drumstick.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Spicy Miso Glazed Drumsticks

Spicy Miso Glazed Drumsticks
Spicy Miso Glazed Drumsticks Recipe

Summary: Sweet and spicy, these drumsticks are perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. The combination of miso paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sriracha creates a rich and addictive flavor profile.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, sriracha, and garlic.
3. Add rice vinegar and water to the bowl and stir until smooth.
4. Place drumsticks in a large bowl and pour the glaze over them. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and place the drumsticks on it.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and caramelized.
7. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Moroccan-Inspired Spiced Drumsticks

Moroccan-Inspired Spiced Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with these aromatic drumsticks infused with the warm spices of Morocco. Perfect for a quick appetizer or party favorite, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the drumsticks and toss until well coated.
3. Season with salt and black pepper.
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 and crispy.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Bourbon BBQ Smoked Drumsticks

Bourbon BBQ Smoked Drumsticks
These tender drumsticks are smothered in a rich bourbon-infused BBQ sauce, resulting in a sweet and tangy flavor profile that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for game day gatherings or backyard barbecues.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/4 cup Bourbon BBQ Sauce (see below)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Bourbon BBQ Sauce:

– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Season drumsticks with salt and pepper, then coat with the dry rub mixture.
4. Smoke drumsticks for 2-3 hours, or until tender.
5. Brush with Bourbon BBQ Sauce during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Herb-Crusted Lemon Garlic Drumsticks

Herb-Crusted Lemon Garlic Drumsticks
Brighten up your meal with these flavorful drumsticks, infused with the warmth of herbs and the zing of lemon and garlic.

Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place drumsticks in the bowl and toss to coat evenly with herb mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange drumsticks in a single layer.
5. Drizzle lemon zest over the drumsticks and sprinkle with lemon juice.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Summary

Get ready to spice up your drumstick game with these 20 mouth-watering recipes! From crispy baked and honey sriracha glazed to slow cooker BBQ and smoky paprika roasted, there’s something for every taste bud. Try buffalo style fried, teriyaki glazed, or korean gochujang-inspired flavors for a twist on the classic drumstick. For a sweet treat, opt for sticky maple mustard or thai sweet chili drumsticks. With these recipes, you’ll never get bored with your chicken drumstick meals again!

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