Baked Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks

Baked Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Perfectly crispy and bursting with flavor, these drumsticks are a great twist on traditional buffalo wings. They’re easy to make, and you can enjoy them without the mess of frying. Plus, they pair well with refreshing sides, making them ideal for game days, parties, or a family dinner.

Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious dish, Baked Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks are the way to go. They are not only flavorful but also healthier than deep-fried options. By baking instead of frying, you can still enjoy that spicy buffalo flavor while cutting down on calories. Additionally, this recipe requires minimal preparation and cook time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

How to Make Baked Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks

Making Baked Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks is straightforward and quick. Here’s what you’ll need and how to prepare them.

Ingredients

12 skinned chicken drumsticks
1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Celery sticks (for serving)
Blue cheese dressing (for serving)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, mix together hot sauce, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Dip each drumstick in the sauce mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
Place the coated drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing on the side.

How to Serve Baked Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks

These drumsticks are best served hot out of the oven. Pair them with fresh celery sticks to provide a crunchy contrast. For dipping, offer some blue cheese dressing on the side, which complements the spicy flavor perfectly. These make a great snack or can be served alongside other dishes for a filling meal.

How to Store Baked Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks

Leftover Baked Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This keeps them crispy and delicious!

Tips to Make Baked Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks

For extra crispy skin, broil the drumsticks for the last 3-5 minutes of baking.
Feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your heat preference.
Marinate the drumsticks in the sauce for an hour before baking for even more flavor.

Variation

If you’re looking for a twist, you can try using different flavors of hot sauce or add honey for a sweet and spicy glaze. You can also experiment with different seasonings, such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper, to change things up!

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen drumsticks. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even baking.

Q: Is there a way to make these drumsticks more spicy?
A: To increase the heat, add extra hot sauce or include some red pepper flakes in the sauce mixture.

Q: Can these be made in an air fryer?
A: Absolutely! You can cook them in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.