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Chicken Dinner Recipes

50 Deliciously Simple Chicken Drumstick Recipes

Updated: Sep 3, 2025 · Published: Oct 15, 2022 by Kristy Bernardo · 50 Comments

With 50 chicken drumstick recipes to choose from, you're sure to discover a few new favorites and some creative ways to grill, bake, air fry and slow-cook them.

I'm always eyeing those huge, inexpensive packages of chicken drumsticks at the store. They're good in theory but - for my family - unless I'm freezing half the package, I often find myself at a loss for new and interesting ways to prepare them. If you're anything like me, you'll appreciate having this list of delicious, easy chicken drumstick recipes at your fingertips whenever you need them!

There are tons of different ways to coat your drumsticks. Whether you're looking for a classic Buffalo sauce, an air fryer alternative, or something else entirely (think habanero, bacon wrapped, smoked or Korean BBQ drumsticks) you'll find something in the chicken drumstick recipes below.

Deliciously Simple Chicken Drumstick Recipes

Go ahead and buy those drumsticks in bulk. Now you have 50 Deliciously Simple Chicken Drumstick Recipes to choose from!

Crispy Asian Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Baked Garlic and Ginger Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: www.jocooks.com

Marinated garlic and ginger chicken drumsticks is an easy and delicious dinner.

Baked Asian Chicken Drumsticks

Crispy Asian Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Crispy chicken drumsticks are tossed with a killer 5-minute asian sauce – incredibly delicious.

Air Fryer Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Air Fryer Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: www.sparklestosprinkles.com

Air Fryer Fried Chicken Drumsticks, a healthier alternative for chicken drumstick lovers.

Pomegranate Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Pomegranate Glazed Chicken Drumsticks And Brussels Sprouts

Photo Credit: yummyaddiction.com

Juicy, flavorful pomegranate glazed chicken drumsticks look gorgeous and taste equally as good.

paleo baked chicken drumsticks

Paleo Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: www.recipefiction.com

Tender fall-off-the-bone drumsticks made with coconut flour for a Paleo friendly meal.

Easy Teriyaki Baked Chicken Legs

Easy Teriyaki Baked Chicken Legs

Photo Credit: whiskitrealgud.com

These teriyaki chicken legs are extremely easy to make and very tasty.

Mango Habanero Chicken Drumsticks

Mango Habanero Drumsticks

Photo Credit: www.goodlifeeats.com

These chicken wings are deliciously basted in mango Habenero BBQ sauce.

CRISPY Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings! FOUR ingredients, so much FLAVOR! Double the batch, they go FAST!

Crispy Baked Lemon Pepper Wings – 4 ingredients!

Photo Credit: www.thewickednoodle.com

These lemon pepper wings are baked until crispy then basted with lemon pepper seasoning and melted butter. 

Asian Glazed Drumsticks

Asian Glazed Drumsticks

Photo Credit: www.homesweetjones.com

These drumsticks are glazed with a Sriracha hot sauce, soy, sesame and garlic for sticky, sweet, salty and spicy flavor all-in-one drumstick.

Barbecued Chicken Drumsticks

Barbecued Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: www.mygoldenpear.com

These mouth watering BBQ drumsticks are made with an easy homemade BBQ sauce.

Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

Air Fryer Panko Breaded Fried Chicken Drumsticks (Legs)

Photo Credit: www.staysnatched.com

Air Fryer Panko Breaded Fried Chicken Drumsticks are crispy, crunchy and have up to 80% less fat.

Easy Harissa chicken with tabbouleh

Easy Harissa Chicken

Photo Credit: www.supergoldenbakes.com

Harissa is a spicy, smoky, peppery red chili paste and a perfect marinade on chicken.

Slow-Cooked Chicken Drumsticks

Slow-Cooked Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: www.allrecipes.com

These fall-off-the-bone chicken drumsticks are delicious way to make drumsticks.

Gluten Free Fried Chicken

Gluten Free Spicy Fried Chicken

Photo Credit: www.nutmegnanny.com

Fried in a gluten free flour and corn meal crust these drumsticks are spicy and packed full of flavor.

Spicy Honey Citrus Chicken Recipe

Spicy Honey Citrus Chicken Recipe

Photo Credit: www.anediblemosaic.com

A marinade of citrus, garlic, ginger, crushed red pepper flakes, honey, and provides a a balance of many flavors.

Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: thestayathomechef.com

Try this easy homemade Korean BBQ sauce and you'll want to put this on all your meats.

Cilantro Lime Chicken Drumsticks

Cilantro Lime Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: www.budgetbytes.com

These Southwest inspired drumsticks are marinated in delicious cilantro lime sauce.

Jamaican Jerk Chicken

Jamaican Jerk Chicken

Photo Credit: www.nutmegnanny.com

This Jerk Chicken is wet marinated for a spicy mixture that is full of flavor.

Grenadian Chicken Stew Drumsticks

Grenadian Chicken Stew

Photo Credit: www.nutmegnanny.com

A Caribbean chicken dish with a twist, bone-in chicken legs, vegetables, and tons of flavorful spices.

Air Fryer Marinated Drumsticks

Air Fryer Marinated Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: drdavinahseats.com

Air Fryer Marinated Chicken Drumsticks are a perfect non-breaded way to cook drumsticks in an air fryer.

Baked Marinade Chicken Legs

Baked Chicken Legs (with Best Marinade)

Photo Credit: natashaskitchen.com

These marinade baked chicken drumsticks have a crispy skin and a juicy center.

LunaCafe's Spicy Fried Chicken

Luna Cafe's Spicy Fried Chicken

Photo Credit: www.thelunacafe.com

A simple southern-style fried chicken recipe from a Kentucky born chef.

Whiskey Orange Chipotle Chicken Thighs & Drums

Whiskey Orange Chipotle Chicken Thighs & Drums

Photo Credit: www.alwaysorderdessert.com

A wild combination of whiskey, orange and chipotle for a very balanced marinade.

Filipino Chicken Adobo

Filipino Chicken Adobo

Photo Credit: www.whattheforkfoodblog.com

The chicken legs stewed in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar and garlic are savory and delicious.

Grilled BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Grilled BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: cookathomemom.com

Grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks are super juicy and perfectly sticky work great at a cookout or as an easy weeknight dinner.

Baked Drumsticks

Baked Drumsticks

Photo Credit: healthyrecipesblogs.com

Skinless, baked chicken drumsticks with olive oil and spices are juicy and healthy alternative to eating chicken.

Easy Baked Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks

Easy Baked Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: eatsimplefood.com

This recipe combines two great flavors, buffalo sauce and chicken drumsticks. This recipe even includes a Gluten Free / Whole30 / Paleo / Low Carb variation.

Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks

Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: littlesunnykitchen.com

Yes, you can make drumsticks in an instant pot, they're a delicious way to make chicken drumsticks.

Cajun Chicken Drumsticks

Cajun Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: thestayathomechef.com

These easy crispy-skinned Cajun chicken drumsticks have just the right amount of Cajun seasoning.

Baked Hawaiian Chicken

Baked Hawaiian Chicken

Photo Credit: myorganizedchaos.net

This Hawaiian chicken drumsticks are marinated in a ginger, honey, and pineapple juice.

Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings

Photo Credit: www.crockpotsandflipflops.com

Wow, cooking drumsticks in a crock with BWWs Garlic Parmesan sauce. What a great idea!

Bacon Wrapped Chicken Drumsticks

Bacon Wrapped Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: www.sandraseasycooking.com

Bacon or drumsticks can complete any meal so this recipe is can't miss.

Ranch Seasoned Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Ranch Seasoned Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: healthyschoolrecipes.com

Ranch seasoning gives these tender drumsticks a great taste and even better dipped in ranch dressing.

Flamin Hot Chicken Lollipops

Flamin Hot Chicken Lollipops

Photo Credit: overthefirecooking.com

Flamin’ Hot chicken drumsticks are an inventive, unique, twist and perfect for Flamin' Hot Cheetos lovers.

Slow Cooker General Tso’s Chicken

Slow Cooker General Tso’s Chicken

Photo Credit: slowcookingperfected.com

General Tso’s chicken recipe in a slow cooker is easy to make.

Keto Chicken Drumsticks

Keto Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: kicking-carbs.com

Keto chicken drumsticks are not only Keto-friendly but can be made in an air fryer, Ninja Foodi, grilled, or baked.

Instant Pot Mongolian Drumsticks

Instant Pot Mongolian Drumsticks

Photo Credit: foodunderpressure.com

These Marinated Instant Pot Mongolian drumsticks are served with a tasty sweet and sticky Mongolian sauce.

Thai Chicken Wings - CopyCat Recipe From Houlihan's

Thai Chicken Wings - CopyCat Recipe From Houlihan's

Photo Credit: www.awortheyread.com

If you're a Houlihan’s fan than this drumstick and wings recipe will be a delight.

Smoked Chicken Wings

Smoked Chicken Wings

Photo Credit: www.thewickednoodle.com

Fans of anything smoked will love these smoked chicken wings.

Easy Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Easy Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Photo Credit: www.thedinnerbite.com

Easy baked chicken Drumsticks with a dry rub. Easy to make and delicious to eat.

Dry Rub Smoked Chicken Drumsticks

Dry Rub Smoked Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: bbqingwiththenolands.com

Dry rub on smoked meats is awesome and these drumsticks live up to the reputation.

Baked Salt and Pepper Chicken Drumsticks

Baked Salt and Pepper Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: www.yeprecipes.com

A simple recipe with ingredients easily found in the house.

Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks

Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: www.julieseatsandtreats.com

Honey garlic chicken drumsticks are crispy, full of flavor and very easy to make.

Tandoori Chicken Drumsticks

Tandoori Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: www.foodandwine.com

These are nicely spiced, super-crispy and served with a cilantro relish for a vibrant flavor.

Zesty Italian Chicken Drumsticks

Zesty Italian Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: flawlessfood.co.uk

Zesty Italian chicken drumsticks are full of Italian seasoning and can be cooked in an oven, air fryer or grill.

Sesame Soy Chicken Drumsticks

Sesame Soy Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: joeats.net

These are sticky, savory and a little bit sweet as you would expect with a combination of sesame and soy.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Legs

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Legs

Photo Credit: www.jocooks.com

Lemon garlic roasted chicken legs have a ton of flavor with lemon, garlic, oregano and thyme.

Baked Curried Chicken Drumsticks

Baked Curried Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: www.aheadofthyme.com

The curry packs a lot of flavor into these drumsticks.

Jalapeno Lime Chicken Drumsticks

Jalapeno Lime Chicken Drumsticks

Photo Credit: spicysouthernkitchen.com

A 3-ingredient recipe packed full of spicy and sweet citrus flavor.

  • Author
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Kristy Bernardo
Kristy Bernardo
Kristy Bernardo is a chef, recipe developer, and five-time cookbook author. A former personal chef and cooking instructor, she loves creating easy, delicious recipes to share!
Kristy Bernardo
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Comments

  1. Hudson Jack says

    November 29, 2018 at 12:27 pm

    I love this idea… chicken legs and thighs are ALWAYS on sale and I’m always looking for recipes that help with the weekly budget! We’re entertaining for a football party this weekend so I’m going to make these… winning… both reasonably priced and full, of yummy flavors!

    Reply
  2. Lynna says

    February 28, 2015 at 2:37 am

    Oh my myyy you have me drooling with all of these great recipes!

    Reply
    • Kristy Bernardo says

      March 06, 2015 at 3:49 pm

      That's a good thing, Lynna! 🙂

      Reply
  3. amanda @ fake ginger says

    February 24, 2015 at 12:02 am

    Mmm, I love drumsticks! So many options here! I bookmarked a ton!

    Reply
    • Kristy Bernardo says

      February 24, 2015 at 4:17 pm

      Thanks, amanda!

      Reply
  4. Lauren @ Wicked Spatula says

    February 23, 2015 at 7:46 pm

    Oh man this list is mouthwatering! I need to up my drumstick game!

    Reply
    • Kristy Bernardo says

      February 24, 2015 at 4:17 pm

      Thank you, Lauren!

      Reply
  5. Anna @ Crunchy Creamy Sweet says

    February 23, 2015 at 6:48 pm

    Fantastic list, Kristy! Pinning this for the next time I am making drumsticks!

    Reply
    • Kristy Bernardo says

      February 24, 2015 at 4:18 pm

      Thanks so much, Anna!

      Reply
  6. Angela {mind-over-batter.com} says

    February 23, 2015 at 6:12 pm

    How many times can a chick say YES!! I want every single one of these. The slow roasted with sundried tomatoes? Oh, mama.... Love this list!!

    Reply
    • Kristy Bernardo says

      February 24, 2015 at 4:16 pm

      That one is one of my faves, too, Angela!

      Reply
  7. Laura @MotherWouldKnow says

    February 23, 2015 at 3:44 pm

    Ever since Superbowl weekend, when I didn't make wings, I've been dreaming about eating chicken, getting my fingers all messy and licking off the sauce. Now my only problem will be deciding which recipe to try first.

    Reply
    • Kristy Bernardo says

      February 24, 2015 at 4:16 pm

      Glad to be of service, Laura!

      Reply
  8. Kimberly Ann @ Bake Love Give says

    February 23, 2015 at 3:35 pm

    Well this is complete torture reading while hungry for lunch! Drumsticks never looked so good!

    Reply
    • Kristy Bernardo says

      February 24, 2015 at 4:15 pm

      Thanks, Kimberly Ann!

      Reply
  9. Jean | lemons & anchovies says

    February 23, 2015 at 2:08 pm

    We are a household of two so whenever I buy in bulk more than half ends up in the freezer for later. That said, I am always looking for some good chicken recipes because I always end up making the same dishes over and over. Lots of inspiration here, thank you!

    Reply
    • Kristy Bernardo says

      February 23, 2015 at 3:09 pm

      My pleasure, Jean! Thank you for the comment 🙂

      Reply
  10. Marye says

    February 23, 2015 at 1:04 pm

    This is great! I am always looking for ways to use drumsticks! Thanks for doing the "legwork" LOL!

    Reply
    • Kristy Bernardo says

      February 23, 2015 at 3:08 pm

      hahaha, that was a good one, Marye!! 🙂

      Reply
  11. Faith (An Edible Mosaic) says

    February 23, 2015 at 7:09 am

    Oh yum! I love all the different flavor combos and ideas here. You can't go wrong with chicken and dark meat is my fav. 🙂

    Thank you so much for including me!

    Reply
    • Kristy Bernardo says

      February 23, 2015 at 3:08 pm

      Dark meat is my fave, too. And you're very welcome, Faith!

      Reply
  12. Des @ Life's Ambrosia says

    February 23, 2015 at 12:35 am

    Chicken drumsticks are THE best cut. Loving all of these!

    Reply
    • Kristy Bernardo says

      February 23, 2015 at 3:08 pm

      Thanks, Des!

      Reply
  13. Keith Sellars says

    February 22, 2015 at 8:00 pm

    They all look great but I know the Crispy Asian Chicken Drumsticks are awesome. Had some awhile back and can't wait to taste them again.

    Reply
    • Kristy Bernardo says

      February 23, 2015 at 3:07 pm

      They'll definitely need to be made again soon! I might share some again - if you're lucky, haha 🙂

      Reply
  14. SSusan | LunaCafe says

    February 22, 2015 at 1:43 pm

    HOLY COW, THESE ALL LOOK SO AMAZING! Kristy, you are a MASTER curator. This collection is inspired. I want to try every one of these chicken recipes .Such glorious photos too. Bravo! And thank you so much for including LunaCafe. 🙂

    Reply
    • Kristy Bernardo says

      February 23, 2015 at 3:06 pm

      You are too sweet to me, Susan!! It was my pleasure to include your fantastic-looking fried chicken - wish I had a few pieces of it right now! xo

      Reply
  15. Valerie Hoff DeCarlo says

    February 22, 2015 at 10:34 am

    These look amazing! I have two growing boys who go through a LOT of food. I may try a few of these with turkey legs too!

    Reply
    • Kristy Bernardo says

      February 22, 2015 at 12:49 pm

      Thanks, Valerie!

      Reply
  16. Angela @ My Golden Pear says

    February 22, 2015 at 5:18 am

    What a great selection you have given us. Thanks for featuring my recipe.

    Reply
    • Kristy Bernardo says

      February 22, 2015 at 8:54 am

      You're very welcome, Angela 🙂

      Reply
  17. Elizabeth says

    February 21, 2015 at 4:13 pm

    What a great list, Kristy! I have a giant package of drumsticks in the freezer right now, so this is perfect. Thanks for including my Slow Roasted Chicken Legs.

    Reply
    • Kristy Bernardo says

      February 22, 2015 at 8:54 am

      My pleasure, Elizabeth!

      Reply

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