Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and easy to prepare with minimal prep time
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Uses simple pantry ingredients
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Bold Cajun flavor with a buttery finish
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Crispy skin and tender, juicy meat
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Perfect for family dinners or meal prep
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Easily adjustable spice level
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
6 chicken drumsticks (about 2 lbs.)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2-3 teaspoons homemade Cajun seasoning (divided, adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
Parsley (chopped)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with greased foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
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In a large bowl, add the chicken drumsticks and vegetable oil. Toss well to coat evenly. Sprinkle ½ teaspoon of Cajun seasoning over the chicken and toss until coated. Add another ½ teaspoon and toss again to build flavor. Arrange the drumsticks evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
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Bake for 25–32 minutes, flipping the drumsticks halfway through cooking. They are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer.
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Transfer the cooked drumsticks to a clean large bowl. Drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle the remaining Cajun seasoning over the top, adjusting to taste. Toss gently until evenly coated. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
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Servings and timing
Servings: 6
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25–32 minutes
Total time: Approximately 30 minutes
Variations
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
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Garlic Butter Style: Mix minced garlic into the melted butter before tossing.
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Honey Cajun: Drizzle a little honey over the drumsticks before serving for a sweet-spicy twist.
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Air Fryer Option: Cook at 380°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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Boneless Option: Use boneless chicken thighs and adjust cooking time as needed.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes to help maintain crispiness. Microwave reheating works for convenience but may soften the skin.
For longer storage, freeze cooked drumsticks in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?
Yes, store-bought Cajun seasoning works perfectly. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Can I make this recipe less spicy?
Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a mild blend.
Do I need to flip the drumsticks while baking?
Yes, flipping halfway through helps ensure even browning and crispiness.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely. Bone-in, skin-on thighs work well. Adjust cooking time as needed.
What side dishes go well with Cajun chicken drumsticks?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad pair nicely.
Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can toss the chicken with oil and seasoning and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before baking.
Why add butter at the end?
The melted butter enhances flavor and helps the seasoning stick to the drumsticks.
Can I grill these instead of baking?
Yes, grill over medium heat for about 25–30 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking sheet or two sheets to avoid overcrowding.
Conclusion
Cajun Chicken Drumsticks are a flavorful, fuss-free meal that delivers bold taste with minimal effort. With crispy skin, juicy meat, and a rich buttery finish, this recipe is sure to become a regular favorite in your dinner rotation. Whether served with vegetables, potatoes, or a fresh salad, it’s a dependable and delicious choice every time.
