You’re staring into your fridge, tired, hungry, and dreading another night of dry, bland chicken. Sound familiar?
The good news? A perfectly crispy, juicy, and flavourful meal is just one chicken drumstick recipe away, and you don’t need to be a MasterChef to pull it off.
Whether you’re firing up the oven or relying on your trusty air fryer, this simple chicken drumstick recipe is your go-to for weeknight wins. And when you use Gingin Grass Fed’s premium pasture-raised chicken, you’ll taste the difference in every bite.
Let’s break down everything you need to know.
What You’ll Need for This Chicken Drumstick Recipe
Before we get cooking, here’s what you’ll need.
Ingredients:
- 8 pasture-raised Gingin Grass Fed chicken drumsticks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme or oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of cayenne for a kick
Equipment:
- Oven or air fryer
- Baking tray or air fryer basket
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer (optional but highly recommended)
Prepping Your Drumsticks: Quick & Clean
Prepping properly ensures maximum flavour and crispiness.
Here’s how to prep like a pro:
- Pat dry: Use paper towels to remove moisture from the skin.
- Trim excess skin: But don’t remove the skin entirely, it crisps beautifully!
- Season thoroughly: Get into every nook and cranny.
- Let sit for 10-15 minutes: This lets the flavours soak in.
Oven-Baked Chicken Drumstick Recipe: Step-by-Step
Cooking Method: Oven
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35–40 mins
Temp: 200°C (400°F)
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (fan-forced).
- Line a baking tray with foil or baking paper for easy clean-up.
- Place a wire rack on the tray to allow airflow (optional, but it helps crisp skin).
- Arrange drumsticks in a single layer. Avoid overlapping.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping once halfway.
- Check internal temperature (should be 75°C at the thickest part).
- Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Air Fryer Chicken Drumstick Recipe: Crispy, Quick & Healthier
Cooking Method: Air Fryer
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Temp: 190°C (375°F)
Steps:
- Preheat air fryer to 190°C.
- Place drumsticks in the basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd.
- Cook for 25 minutes, flipping at the 12-minute mark.
- Check internal temp and rest before serving.
Flavour Variations to Try
Spice things up based on what you’ve got in your pantry.
Some tasty variations:
- Honey soy garlic: Add a drizzle of honey and a splash of soy sauce.
- Lemon herb: Toss with lemon zest, rosemary, and parsley.
- Buffalo style: Coat in hot sauce and melted butter post-cooking.
- Sticky BBQ glaze: Brush on your favourite sauce for the last 5 minutes.
Sides That Pair Well With Chicken Drumsticks
Wondering what to serve on the side?
Here are some easy combos:
- Roasted potatoes and green beans
- Sweet potato mash and corn
- Garden salad and garlic bread
- Mac and cheese and steamed broccoli
- Coleslaw and wedges
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Got extras? Lucky you.
Storing:
- Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat at 180°C for 10-15 minutes.
- Air fryer: Reheat at 180°C for 5–7 minutes.
Tip: Don’t microwave unless you want soggy skin!
Why Gingin Grass Fed Chicken Makes All the Difference
Cooking chicken is one thing. Cooking better chicken is another.
Gingin Grass Fed’s pasture-raised chicken drumsticks are:
- Antibiotic and hormone-free
- Raised in ethical, low-stress environments
- Full of natural flavour, not water or fillers
- Locally farmed and high in quality protein
When you cook with better meat, you don’t need heavy sauces or marinades to cover up bland flavour. The chicken speaks for itself.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Drumsticks Every Time
A few pro tips go a long way.
- Dry the skin for crispier results.
- Use a thermometer to avoid under- or overcooking.
- Don’t skip the rest period. Juices need to settle.
- Season under the skin for deeper flavour.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan or fryer. Circulating heat = even cooking.
Chicken Drumstick Recipe Wrap-Up with Gingin Grass Fed
This simple chicken drumstick recipe is proof that wholesome, delicious dinners don’t need to be complicated. Whether you’re using the oven or air fryer, you can whip up juicy, golden drumsticks in under 40 minutes with basic ingredients.
At Gingin Grass Fed, we believe better meat makes better meals. Our pasture-raised chicken drumsticks are perfect for any home cook wanting quality, flavour, and peace of mind in every bite.
Browse our full range of ethically raised, grass-fed chicken today!
Ready to taste the difference? Get your fresh chicken drumsticks in WA from Gingin Grass Fed!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I cook chicken drumsticks in the oven?
Typically 35–40 minutes at 200°C. Always check for an internal temp of 75°C.
Are drumsticks better in the oven or air fryer?
Both methods work great! Air fryers cook faster and give crispier skin, while ovens handle large batches better.
Can I marinate the drumsticks overnight?
Absolutely! Overnight marination enhances flavour, especially with acidic or yoghurt-based marinades.
Do I need to turn the drumsticks halfway through cooking?
Yes. Turning ensures even cooking and browning on both sides.
Is pasture-raised chicken really better?
Yes! It offers superior taste, texture, and nutritional value without harmful chemicals or additives.