Description

Crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly savory. These Crunchy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks feature a golden parmesan-panko crust with juicy, flavorful meat inside — all baked to perfection without deep frying. Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or any time you’re craving comfort food with gourmet flair.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

6 chicken drumsticks, skin on
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large eggs, beaten

Optional:

Fresh parsley, for garnish
Red pepper flakes, for heat

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and spray with oil.
Mix Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine parmesan, panko, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Prepare Egg Wash: In another bowl, beat the eggs.
Dredge Drumsticks: Dip each drumstick in the egg wash, then in the parmesan-panko mix, pressing firmly to coat.
Arrange & Drizzle: Place drumsticks on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
Bake: Bake 35–45 minutes, turning once halfway, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Garnish with parsley or chili flakes if desired.

Notes

Protein swaps: Use chicken thighs or wings; adjust cooking times accordingly.
Extra crunch: Don’t skip the olive oil drizzle; it’s key for a golden crust.
Gluten-free version: Use almond flour and gluten-free panko.
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10–12 minutes to re-crisp.
Air fryer option: Cook at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping once.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35–45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 drumstick
Calories: 210
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks, Baked Chicken Drumsticks, Crispy Parmesan Chicken, Oven Baked Drumsticks, Easy Chicken Dinner