Ingredients:

  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. [1. Rinse the chicken drumsticks under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help achieve a crispy skin.]
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to form a paste.
  4. Add the drumsticks to the bowl and use your hands or tongs to coat each piece evenly with the seasoning mixture.
  5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top of it if you have one. If not, you can place the drumsticks directly on the foil-lined baking sheet.
  6. Arrange the seasoned drumsticks on the wire rack or directly on the baking sheet in a single layer without overcrowding them.
  7. Bake in preheated oven for about 40–45 minutes or until internal temperature reaches at least165°F (75°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer inserted into thickest part of meat without touching bone.
  8. For extra crispiness during cooking time: After about30 minutes of baking time,switch your oven setting to broil for an additional few minutes while keeping an eye on them to prevent burning.
  9. Broil until they are nicely browned and crispy—this usually takes about another3–5 minutes.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest for about five minutes before serving.