Baking juicy, flavorful chicken drumsticks with crispy skin can seem like a tricky endeavor One of the most common questions home cooks face is whether or not to cover the drumsticks with foil during baking Here is a definitive guide to using foil when baking chicken drumsticks, with tips and techniques for ideal results every time.
The Purpose of Foil When Baking Chicken Drumsticks
Covering chicken drumsticks with foil serves a few key purposes
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Retains moisture and prevents the drumsticks from drying out during baking. The foil creates a semi-enclosed environment with steam and heat to gently cook the meat.
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Promotes even cooking by distributing the heat evenly around each drumstick.
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Prevents the skin and outside of the drumsticks from over-browning or burning before the interior is cooked through.
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Allows for a crispy skin at the end once the foil is removed.
Should You Cover Chicken Drumsticks with Foil?
The short answer is yes, foil can be a useful tool when baking chicken drumsticks. However, foil shouldn’t be used the entire time. Here are some guidelines on the best use of foil:
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Partially cover the drumsticks with foil during the first half to 2/3 of baking. This retains moisture and prevents burning.
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Remove the foil for the last 15-20 minutes of baking. This allows the skin to crisp up.
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Don’t wrap the foil too tightly. Allow space for air flow so the skin can still slightly crisp up under the foil.
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Use heavy duty foil as regular foil can tear and cause a mess in the oven.
Step-by-Step Guide for Baking Chicken Drumsticks
Follow this simple step-by-step guide for baking juicy, tender chicken drumsticks with crispy skin:
Prep
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Pat drumsticks dry thoroughly with paper towels. Dry skin crisps up better.
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Season drumsticks generously with spices and herbs of choice. Try paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Arrange drumsticks in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet or dish.
Bake Covered
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Lightly tent foil over the drumsticks, leaving some air flow.
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Bake at 400°F for 30-40 minutes until chicken is almost cooked through.
Uncover and Crisp
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Remove foil and increase oven temp to 425°F.
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Bake for 15-20 more minutes until skin is crisped and golden brown.
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The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Rest and Serve
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Let drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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Enjoy your tender, juicy drumsticks with crispy skin!
Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken Drumstick Skin
If you want ultra crispy skin on your baked chicken drumsticks, try these useful tips:
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Dry drumsticks very well before seasoning and baking. Pat off excess moisture.
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Use a wire rack on the baking sheet so air circulates completely around drumsticks.
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Brush drumsticks with oil before baking for added crispiness.
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Bake uncovered on a high oven temp from the start for maximum crispiness. Watch closely to avoid burning.
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Increase baking temp towards the end to further crisp up the skin after uncovering.
Preventing Dry Chicken Drumsticks
To keep your baked chicken drumsticks extra juicy and moist:
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Brine the drumsticks in saltwater before baking to infuse moisture into the meat.
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Cover with foil during the first half to two-thirds of baking time.
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Do not overcook. Use a meat thermometer to determine doneness.
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Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to redistribute juices.
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Baste with juices during baking to add moisture on top.
Alternative Methods Beyond Foil
While foil is a popular choice, here are some other ways to bake chicken drumsticks:
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Parchment paper can provide a protective layer without retaining as much steam.
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A wire rack over a baking sheet exposes the underside of the drumsticks to more heat for even cooking.
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A broiler pan allows fat and juices to drip away, keeping drumsticks crispy.
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An uncovered Dutch oven provides gentle ambient heat from all sides.
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Elevate drumsticks in a roasting pan to prevent sogginess from collected juices.
Experiment with these alternative methods to find your ideal approach to baking chicken drumsticks!
Common Questions About Baking Chicken Drumsticks
What temperature should I bake chicken drumsticks?
- Bake at 400°F-425°F for best results. Start at 400°F then increase to 425°F once foil is removed if aiming for crispy skin.
How long do I bake chicken drumsticks?
- Total baking time is usually 45-60 minutes. Cook covered for 30-40 minutes first.
How do I know when they’re done?
- Chicken drumsticks are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The meat near the bone should no longer be pink.
Can I use parchment paper instead of foil?
- Yes, parchment paper can be used but doesn’t retain moisture and steam as well as foil.
Why is my chicken skin not crisping up?
- Be sure to thoroughly dry the skin before baking. Also, leave uncovered for 15-20 mins at the end of baking to crisp the skin.
Should I flip the drumsticks during baking?
- Flipping halfway through may help them cook evenly, but is not required if cooking in a single layer.
The Takeaway on Baking Chicken Drumsticks
Covering chicken drumsticks with foil during the initial baking phase, then removing it at the end, provides the ideal balance of tender, juicy meat and crispy skin. Proper seasoning, temperature, and cook time also play key roles in achieving the perfect baked drumsticks. With these handy tips, you’ll be enjoying this tasty and inexpensive meal option with confidence and ease.
Storage Instructions for Baked Drumsticks:
Store your leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days.
How long to bake chicken drumsticks in the oven?
You want them to hit an internal temperature of 180 degrees. About 30 minutes at 400 degrees. And then hit it with that little bit in the broiler. That is usually about perfect.