Name: Easy Spicy Drumsticks
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 chicken drumsticks (medium, about 4 oz each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or ½ teaspoon of any other salt); 2 teaspoons chili powder; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper; Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish); Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes (for garnish)

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These Easy Spicy Drumsticks are a no-fuss, flavor-packed dinner solution perfect for busy weeknights. Made with just five ingredients and no added sugar, they deliver bold, spicy flavor with minimal effort. Juicy on the inside with a slightly crisp, well-seasoned exterior, these drumsticks are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike.

Easy Spicy Drumsticks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Just five ingredients: Pantry staples come together for big flavor.
Low carb, no sugar: A clean, healthy option without sacrificing taste.
Quick prep: Just 10 minutes to season, then let the oven do the rest.
Spicy and satisfying: The perfect kick from chili powder and cayenne.
Great texture: Juicy inside, slightly crisp outside thanks to oven roasting.
Family-friendly: Easy to adjust spice level for kids or spice-sensitive eaters.
Versatile main dish: Pairs with salads, rice, veggies, or any favorite side.
Meal prep ready: Excellent for leftovers or grab-and-go lunches.
Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free: Suitable for a variety of diets.
Perfect for any season: Bake in winter, serve cold in summer picnics.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 chicken drumsticks (medium, about 4 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or ½ tsp of any other salt)
2 teaspoons chili powder
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Optional Garnishes:

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Pinch of red pepper flakes

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with high-heat-resistant parchment paper.
Prepare chicken: Pat drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure crispier skin. Arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Make the rub: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, chili powder, and cayenne pepper to form a paste.
Coat the chicken: Rub the spice paste all over the drumsticks using your hands or a pastry brush, making sure each piece is well coated.
Bake: Roast the drumsticks for about 40 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F when measured near the bone). Check at 30 minutes and tent with foil if they begin to brown too much on top.
Garnish and serve: If desired, sprinkle with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings (2 drumsticks each)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Mild version: Omit or reduce cayenne pepper for a kid-friendly flavor.
Smoky flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the spice rub.
Lemon twist: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over drumsticks before serving.
Add garlic: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or fresh minced garlic to the paste.
Asian-inspired: Add a splash of sesame oil and sprinkle with green onions.
Crispier skin: Finish under the broiler for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.
Boneless option: Use chicken thighs or breasts and adjust cooking time accordingly.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Reheat in the microwave (covered) or in a 350°F oven (uncovered) until warmed through.

Cold option: These drumsticks are also delicious cold—perfect for picnics or lunchboxes.

FAQs

How spicy are these drumsticks?

They have a moderate heat from the cayenne pepper. You can adjust the spice level by using less cayenne or omitting it altogether.

Can I use chicken thighs or wings instead?

Yes, this recipe works well with any cut of chicken. Just adjust cooking time depending on the size and thickness of the pieces.

What sides go well with spicy drumsticks?

These pair well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, rice, or a crisp green salad.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can season the drumsticks a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I grill these instead of baking?

Absolutely. Grill over medium heat for about 30–35 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.

Is this recipe suitable for keto or low-carb diets?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and contains no sugar or flour, making it great for keto and paleo diets.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

No marinating is needed. The rub coats the chicken right before baking and adds plenty of flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and use two baking sheets or cook in batches.

What if I don’t have parchment paper?

You can use aluminum foil or place the chicken directly on a greased baking sheet, though cleanup may be a bit messier.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer—chicken is safe to eat when it reaches 165°F internally, especially near the bone.

Conclusion

These Easy Spicy Drumsticks are proof that simple can be spectacular. With just five ingredients and less than an hour of total time, you’ll have a flavorful, juicy, and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. Whether served hot from the oven or chilled for lunch the next day, these drumsticks bring bold flavor to every bite with minimal fuss.