Indulge in the savory goodness of oven-baked chicken drumsticks, a convenient and flavorful dinner option that requires minimal cleanup. This garlic parmesan sheet pan recipe is a masterclass in balancing bold flavors, combining the pungency of garlic, the richness of parmesan, the subtle kick of red pepper, and the freshness of parsley. The result is a dish that effortlessly pairs with a variety of side dishes, making it a staple for chicken enthusiasts. With this simple yet satisfying recipe, you’ll be treated to juicy, flavorful drumsticks without the hassle of excessive washing up.
This easy-to-make dish is not only a pleasure to consume but also a healthy one, perfect for those seeking a nutritious and satisfying meal. The recipe’s simplicity also makes it an excellent choice for busy home cooks or those looking to impress with minimal effort.
For more sheet pan inspiration, be sure to check out other recipes like honey garlic pork chops, eggs benedict, and our mouthwatering turkey breast dinner – all of which offer a delicious departure from the usual routine.
Why You’ll Love These
The magic of garlic and parmesan is undeniable, and when combined with juicy chicken drumsticks, it’s a match made in heaven. What’s more, cooking these drumsticks on a sheet pan ensures a stress-free cleanup process. And the best part? This delectable meal won’t break the bank – the affordability of chicken drumsticks and other ingredients makes this recipe a guilt-free indulgence for everyone.
How to Make Sheet Pan Chicken Drumsticks
To prepare the chicken drumsticks, start by pat drying them with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Next, combine the drumsticks with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl until they are evenly coated. For cooking, place the drumsticks on a wire rack set over a rimmed sheet pan or baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven for approximately 35 minutes. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce by whisking together melted butter, minced garlic cloves, parmesan, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Once the chicken is cooked, toss it with the prepared sauce, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot alongside your preferred side dishes.
Substitutions and Variations
For an added kick, feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes to your desired level of heat. Alternatively, you could incorporate a few drops of Sriracha, Tabasco, or your go-to hot sauce into the sauce mixture for an extra layer of flavor. To mix things up even further, why not try substituting the parmesan with another cheese altogether? Emmentaler, Swiss, or a blend of shredded cheeses could all work well in this recipe. Similarly, if you’re looking to add some freshness to the dish, consider swapping out the parsley for chopped basil or your preferred herb.
How to Store Baked Chicken Legs
When storing cooked chicken drumsticks, it’s essential to maintain their freshness. In the refrigerator, leftovers should be kept in an airtight container and consumed within three days. If you prefer to freeze them, this is also an option for up to three months. However, when freezing, it’s recommended to do so without adding the sauce first, instead preparing the sauce once you’ve thawed the drumsticks. To thaw frozen chicken drumsticks, place them in the refrigerator overnight. Finally, reheat your cooked drumsticks using either an air fryer or microwave, whichever method you prefer.
Top Tips
Before cooking your chicken wings, it’s essential to pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps create a crispy exterior in the oven. To confirm the drumsticks are fully cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part, avoiding any bones. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. As you indulge in these finger-lickin’ treats, don’t forget to have napkins handy, as they can be quite messy.
Chicken Drumstick Sheet Pan Recipe FAQs
When deciding between skin-on and skinless chicken drumsticks for this recipe, it’s clear that the former is the way to go. The skin renders beautifully crispy in the oven, adding a satisfying textural element to each bite. That being said, if you’re not a fan of crispy chicken skin, you can certainly opt for skinless drumsticks instead.In terms of flavor enhancements, feel free to experiment with different seasoning blends. Lemon pepper, Italian-style, or Cajun-seasoned drums would be delicious alternatives to the garlic powder and red pepper flakes called for in the recipe. Keep in mind that if your chosen seasoning contains salt, you may want to adjust the amount specified in the recipe accordingly. Other flavorful options might include onion powder, dried oregano, or smoked paprika.
Sheet Pan Drumsticks Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Sheet Pan Chicken Drumsticks
In a surprising twist, juicy garlic parmesan sheet pan chicken drumsticks deliver on both health and flavor. This effortless recipe yields a dinner that’s not only scrumptious but also surprisingly easy to prepare, with the added bonus of minimal cleanup. With just 10 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready for six people in no more than 50 minutes.
Instructions
To prepare your drumsticks for cooking, start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, place a wire rack on top of a large sheet pan, as this will help with air circulation during the baking process. Remove the drumsticks from their packaging and gently pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Then, add the drumsticks to a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Season the drumsticks with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, making sure they’re evenly coated. Once the drumsticks are well-seasoned, place them on the sheet pan in a single layer, leaving enough space between each drumstick so they don’t touch. Now, bake the drumsticks in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit when checked with a digital thermometer. While the drumsticks are baking, melt some butter in a separate bowl and whisk it together with minced garlic, parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes to create a flavorful sauce. When the drumsticks are done, remove them from the oven and toss them in the garlic parmesan sauce until they’re fully coated. Finally, garnish the drumsticks with some fresh chopped parsley and serve them immediately.
