how long to bake chicken drumsticks
The baking time for chicken drumsticks depends on several factors, including the oven temperature, the size of the drumsticks, and whether they are bone-in or boneless. Here are some general guidelines for baking chicken drumsticks:
Bone-in Chicken Drumsticks:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes for small drumsticks (about 1-1.5 inches in diameter).
- Bake for 35-40 minutes for medium drumsticks (about 1.5-2 inches in diameter).
- Bake for 45-50 minutes for large drumsticks (about 2-2.5 inches in diameter).
Boneless Chicken Drumsticks:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake for 15-20 minutes for small drumsticks (about 1-1.5 inches in diameter).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes for medium drumsticks (about 1.5-2 inches in diameter).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes for large drumsticks (about 2-2.5 inches in diameter).
Tips:
- Make sure to pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels before baking to help them cook evenly.
- You can season the drumsticks with your favorite herbs and spices before baking.
- If you want crispy skin, bake the drumsticks at a higher temperature (425°F/220°C) for the first 10-15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the remaining cooking time.
- Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remember, these are just general guidelines, and the actual baking time may vary depending on your oven and the specific drumsticks you are using. Always check the chicken for doneness by cutting into one of the drumsticks; if it’s cooked through, it should be white and juicy, with no pink color remaining.
