Print

Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 6 reviews

This Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks recipe offers a deliciously crispy and flavorful appetizer or main course with classic spicy buffalo sauce. The drumsticks are oven-baked until perfectly crispy and then tossed in a homemade buttery, tangy buffalo sauce for the perfect balance of heat and richness. Ideal for game day, parties, or a tasty weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Chicken Drumsticks

  • 8-10 chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

Buffalo Sauce

  • 1/3 cup hot sauce
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Oven and Rack: Wrap a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the chicken for crispy skin.
  2. Season the Drumsticks: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove moisture. Place them in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat evenly, which helps the seasoning stick and promotes crisping.
  3. Mix Dry Spices and Coat Chicken: In a small bowl, whisk together garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the drumsticks and toss well so all pieces are evenly coated.
  4. Bake the Chicken: Arrange the drumsticks on the wire rack set over the baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, flipping the drumsticks halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning. The skin should become nicely crispy and golden.
  5. Make the Buffalo Sauce: While the chicken bakes, combine hot sauce, butter, white distilled vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low until the butter has melted and the sauce is smooth, stirring occasionally.
  6. Toss Chicken in Sauce and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, transfer the drumsticks to a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm buffalo sauce over the chicken and toss thoroughly to coat each piece. Serve immediately while hot and crispy for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps achieve crispy skin.
  • Using a wire rack on a baking sheet allows air circulation for even crisping during baking.
  • Flip the drumsticks halfway through baking for better color and cooking consistency.
  • The cayenne pepper in the sauce is optional and can be adjusted for desired spice level.
  • Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing for a classic buffalo chicken experience.
  • Leftover buffalo drumsticks can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.

Find it online: https://dishcooks.com/buffalo-chicken-drumsticks-recipe/