Yum Yum Dishes

15 Delicious Chicken Drumstick Recipes for Juicy and Flavorful Meals

January 12, 2025January 12, 2025 Yummy

If you’re on the hunt for tasty chicken drumstick recipes that deliver juicy goodness, you’ve come to the right place! These 15 dishes are packed with flavor and variety, making it easy to elevate your dinner routine. From spicy to sweet and everything in between, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. Get ready to make some mouthwatering meals!

Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken

If you’re looking for a chicken recipe that packs a punch, this Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken is just the ticket. It combines sweet honey with tangy mustard and a hint of heat, creating a mouthwatering glaze that seeps into juicy chicken drumsticks. This dish is not only delicious but also super simple to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering.

The balance of flavors in this recipe makes it a real crowd-pleaser. The honey adds a delightful sweetness, while the mustard brings a savory kick. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a satisfying meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Place the drumsticks in a large bowl and pour the honey mustard mixture over them. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
4. Arrange the coated drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown.
5. Once cooked, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Barbecue Glazed Drumsticks

Barbecue glazed drumsticks are a crowd-pleaser, combining juicy chicken with a rich, tangy sauce that makes your taste buds dance. This recipe is simple to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends.

The sweet and smoky flavors of the barbecue sauce caramelize beautifully on the drumsticks, creating a sticky, finger-licking treat. These drumsticks are not just delicious; they are also versatile and can be served with various sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or baked beans for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the drumsticks in the mixture until fully coated.
3. Place the drumsticks on the grill or a baking sheet if using the oven. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the drumsticks with barbecue sauce, allowing it to caramelize on the chicken.
5. Remove from heat, let rest for a few minutes, and serve with extra barbecue sauce for dipping.

Garlic Parmesan Baked Drumsticks

Garlic Parmesan Baked Drumsticks are a tasty and easy way to enjoy chicken. These drumsticks are coated in a delicious blend of garlic and Parmesan, giving them a crispy, savory outer layer while keeping the meat juicy and tender inside. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to make.

With just a few ingredients, you’ll create a satisfying meal that everyone will love. The combination of garlic and Parmesan not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful aroma to your kitchen. It’s a win-win for both taste and ease!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels, then place them in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
4. Roll each drumstick in the Parmesan mixture until well coated, then place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the drumsticks are golden brown and cooked through. An internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) is recommended.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Lemon Herb Grilled Drumsticks

Lemon Herb Grilled Drumsticks are a delightful combination of juicy chicken and refreshing citrus flavors. This recipe is super easy to whip up, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and weekend barbecues. The marinade infuses the drumsticks with zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Grilling these drumsticks adds a delicious smoky char that elevates the taste even more. Plus, they cook up quickly, so you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, thyme, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the drumsticks to the bowl and toss well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Drumsticks: Place the marinated drumsticks on the grill. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve: Remove from the grill, let rest for a few minutes, then serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Crispy Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Crispy fried chicken drumsticks are a classic comfort food that everyone loves. These flavorful bites are golden brown on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a perfect choice for any meal or gathering. They’re simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a bit of time. The satisfying crunch of the coating paired with tender, succulent meat is hard to resist!

This recipe balances spices and seasoning to create a mouthwatering experience with every bite. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces or alongside classic sides like coleslaw or mashed potatoes for a delightful meal.

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the buttermilk and eggs. Add the chicken drumsticks, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Set Up the Breading: In another bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir until well mixed.
3. Coat the Chicken: Remove drumsticks from the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, pressing to coat evenly. Set aside on a plate.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the drumsticks in the hot oil, cooking in batches if necessary. Fry for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain and Serve: Remove chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy!

Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks

Teriyaki chicken drumsticks are a delightful way to enjoy juicy, tender chicken with a sweet and savory glaze. This dish is not only simple to make but also perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of soy sauce, honey, and a hint of ginger creates a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.

Preparing teriyaki chicken drumsticks is straightforward and fun. Simply marinate the drumsticks in a delicious teriyaki sauce, bake or grill them to perfection, and enjoy a meal that’s full of flavor without too much fuss. Serve them alongside steamed rice and veggies for a complete dinner that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for a thicker sauce)
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and add it to the marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken drumsticks in a resealable bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
3. Cook the Drumsticks: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting periodically with the leftover marinade, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice glaze.
4. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Honey Garlic Soy Sauce Drumsticks

This recipe for honey garlic soy sauce drumsticks is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast. The sticky glaze coats the juicy chicken, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

What’s great about this dish is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a meal that tastes like it came from your favorite restaurant. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 10 chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, sesame oil, ground ginger, and black pepper to create the marinade.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade, ensuring they’re well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the fridge for more flavor.
4. Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is caramelized.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your flavorful honey garlic soy sauce drumsticks!

Buffalo Style Spicy Drumsticks

Buffalo style drumsticks bring a burst of heat and flavor to your dinner table. With their crispy skin and spicy sauce, these drumsticks are perfect for a casual gathering or a fun weeknight meal. They offer the right amount of kick that balances perfectly with a creamy dip.

This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it an easy choice for any occasion. The combination of hot sauce, butter, and seasonings creates a mouthwatering glaze that clings to each drumstick, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup hot sauce
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Celery sticks and ranch dressing, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
2. In a large bowl, combine hot sauce, melted butter, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the drumsticks to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the sauce.
4. Place the coated drumsticks on the wire rack and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve with celery sticks and ranch dressing on the side.

Cilantro Lime Grilled Drumsticks

Cilantro lime grilled drumsticks are a fantastic way to enjoy juicy chicken with a burst of fresh flavors. The zesty lime and vibrant cilantro create a bright marinade that keeps the chicken moist and delicious. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for a weekend barbecue!

The marinade infuses the drumsticks with tangy notes and a hint of spice, making each bite irresistible. Perfectly grilled, these drumsticks are great served with a side salad or grilled vegetables. Plus, they’re easy to make, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the drumsticks in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are cleaned and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Drumsticks: Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the drumsticks on the grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
5. Serve: Remove the drumsticks from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges before serving.

Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Drumsticks

These Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Drumsticks are a vibrant and refreshing take on a classic dish. With zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and aromatic herbs, they bring a taste of the Mediterranean straight to your dinner table. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also delivers juicy and flavorful chicken that’s perfect for any occasion.

The marinade, made with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, infuses the drumsticks with a delightful tangy flavor. Plus, roasting them in the oven ensures that they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Serve these drumsticks with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the drumsticks to the marinade, making sure they’re well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge.
4. Place the marinated drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the drumsticks are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Smoky Chipotle Drumsticks

Get ready to spice up your dinner with these smoky chipotle drumsticks! This recipe brings together juicy chicken and a kick of chipotle heat, creating a perfect balance of flavors that are sure to please your taste buds. It’s simple to make, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight meal or a weekend barbecue.

The marinade infuses the drumsticks with a rich smoky flavor, while the crispy skin adds a delightful crunch. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes impressive without spending all day in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the drumsticks in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the chicken. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are hot and covered with ash.
4. Grill the Drumsticks: Remove the drumsticks from the bag and discard the marinade. Place the drumsticks on the grill and cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and have a nice char.
5. Serve: Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Sweet and Sour Drumsticks

Sweet and sour drumsticks are a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with a tangy, flavorful sauce. The balance of sweetness and acidity makes this recipe a favorite for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

This recipe features tender chicken drumsticks coated in a vibrant sweet and sour sauce, complemented by colorful bell peppers and a hint of garlic. Serve it over rice or alongside your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup sweet and sour sauce
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the chicken drumsticks with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the drumsticks to the skillet and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Once browned, remove the skillet from heat and pour the sweet and sour sauce over the drumsticks. Add the chopped bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
5. Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot.

Pesto Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Pesto baked chicken drumsticks are a simple and flavorful way to enjoy a classic dish. The fresh taste of basil pesto adds a unique twist, making these drumsticks juicy and delicious. You can whip them up in no time, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend meal.

The combination of tender chicken and aromatic pesto creates a mouthwatering dish everyone will love. Serve them alongside your favorite veggies or a light salad for a complete meal. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the basil pesto, olive oil, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the chicken drumsticks in the pesto mixture until well coated.
4. Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and has a golden crust.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Beer Can Chicken Drumsticks

Beer can chicken drumsticks take grilling to a new level with moist, flavorful meat and a perfect crispy skin. The idea is simple: using an open can of beer to hold the drumsticks upright, allowing the steam from the beer to infuse the chicken with flavor while it cooks. This method not only makes the chicken juicy but also adds a distinct, rich taste that everyone will love.

These drumsticks are easy to prepare and are perfect for any backyard cookout. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, they’re a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t require culinary expertise. Just fire up the grill, set the chicken on the cans, and let the magic happen!

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1 can of beer (lager or pale ale works best)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: BBQ sauce for glazing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the drumsticks for flavor.
2. Set Up the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Open the can of beer and fill it about halfway. You can add some spices or a little Worcestershire sauce to the beer for extra flavor.
3. Position the Drumsticks: Carefully place the drumsticks on top of the beer can, inserting the can into the cavity of the drumstick. You can use a grill stand or simply place the can upright on the grill grate.
4. Grill: Close the grill lid and cook the drumsticks for about 30-40 minutes, turning them occasionally. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Glaze (Optional): If you like, brush the drumsticks with BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a sticky, caramelized finish.
6. Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the drumsticks from the cans and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful beer can chicken drumsticks!

Raspberry Balsamic Glazed Drumsticks

Raspberry Balsamic Glazed Drumsticks bring a delightful twist to your chicken routine. The sweet-tart flavor of raspberries paired with the rich depth of balsamic vinegar creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates juicy drumsticks. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that impresses both family and friends. The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving each bite a burst of flavor. Serve these drumsticks with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 10 chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup raspberry preserves
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh raspberries and parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a bowl, mix together raspberry preserves, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Place the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the raspberry balsamic glaze generously over each drumstick, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
5. Garnish with fresh raspberries and parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Raspberry Balsamic Glazed Drumsticks!