Crispy and Flavorful: Easy Baked Chicken Recipe

Are you in search of a hassle-free dinner option that’s both delicious and nutritious? Look no further than this Easy Baked Chicken Recipe! With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a mouthwatering dish that will delight your taste buds and satisfy your hunger. Tender chicken drumsticks seasoned to perfection and baked to golden perfection, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So, let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 10 chicken drumsticks
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 5 Tbs butter

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning Mixture

1. Combine Spices: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, white pepper, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This will be your seasoning blend for the chicken.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

1. Coat Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Season: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over the chicken drumsticks, making sure to coat them evenly on all sides.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

1. Dot with Butter: Cut the butter into small pieces and dot it over the chicken drumsticks.
2. Bake: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
2. Serve: Serve the baked chicken drumsticks hot with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Skin-on vs. Skinless: You can use either skin-on or skinless chicken drumsticks for this recipe, depending on your preference. Keep in mind that skin-on drumsticks will result in crispier skin, while skinless drumsticks may be slightly leaner.
• Adjusting Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Add more paprika for a smokier flavor, or increase the amount of cayenne pepper for extra heat. You can also customize the seasoning blend with your favorite herbs and spices.
• Using Chicken Thighs: If you prefer chicken thighs, you can easily swap them for drumsticks in this recipe. Follow the same seasoning and baking instructions, adjusting the cooking time as needed for larger or smaller pieces of chicken.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

To make a keto-friendly version of this Easy Baked Chicken Recipe, consider the following adjustments:

• Use Ghee or Avocado Oil: Substitute butter with ghee or avocado oil for a dairy-free option that’s keto-friendly.
• Adjust Seasonings: Skip or reduce the amount of onion powder and garlic powder to lower the carb content. Stick to keto-friendly herbs and spices such as paprika, thyme, and basil.

Low-Carb Version:

For a low-carb twist on this recipe, try the following modifications:

• Coat with Almond Flour: Replace the all-purpose seasoning blend with a mixture of almond flour and your favorite low-carb herbs and spices for a crunchy coating without the carbs.
• Bake with Olive Oil: Instead of butter, drizzle the chicken drumsticks with olive oil before baking for a flavorful and low-carb option.

In conclusion, this Easy Baked Chicken Recipe is a perfect solution for busy weeknights or anytime you’re craving a simple yet satisfying meal. With its flavorful seasoning blend and crispy exterior, it’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, with minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a win-win for both taste and convenience. So, give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious homemade dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of drumsticks? A: Yes, you can easily substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for drumsticks in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may cook faster than drumsticks.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is done baking? A: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) as measured with a meat thermometer. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced with a knife, and the chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later? A: While baked chicken is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for optimal crispiness, you can certainly make it ahead of time and reheat it later. Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Q: What can I serve with baked chicken drumsticks? A: Baked chicken drumsticks pair well with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a fresh garden salad. Choose your favorite sides to complement the flavorful chicken for a well-rounded meal.