Crispy Garlic Parmesan Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Tender, juicy chicken drumsticks are coated in a flavorful blend of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs, then oven-baked until perfectly golden and irresistibly crispy. The savory Parmesan forms a delicious crust while the garlic infuses every bite with rich, mouthwatering flavor.
This easy family-friendly recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or casual gatherings.
Pair these flavorful drumsticks with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh garden salad for a satisfying meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
8 chicken drumsticks
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to help them crisp up during baking.
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Add the drumsticks and toss until each piece is evenly coated with the Parmesan-garlic mixture.
Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 35–45 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
For an extra crispy finish, broil for 2–3 minutes during the last few minutes of cooking.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks with:
Creamy mashed potatoes
Roasted garlic vegetables
Buttered pasta
Caesar salad
Rice pilaf
Homemade dinner rolls
Tips for the Best Drumsticks
✔ Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for crispier skin.
✔ Use freshly grated Parmesan for the richest flavor and best texture.
✔ Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
✔ Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes before baking for even deeper flavor.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain the crispy coating.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and loaded with cheesy garlic goodness—these Oven-Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks are comfort food at its finest!
