19 Must Try Chicken Drumstick Recipes for Crispy Tender Meals

Chicken drumsticks are a go-to for flavorful, hands-on meals, and this roundup has them all. From crispy air fryer favorites and sheet pan dinners to slow-cooked and grilled recipes, every option is designed to be juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep, these chicken drumstick recipes make it easy to serve a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Oven Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks are coated in seasoned breading and baked for a crispy exterior. The oven method produces a golden crust without deep-frying. Juicy meat remains inside with each bite. Drumsticks are easy to serve individually or family-style.
Get the Recipe: Oven Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks soak in a Colombian-style marinade with citrus and spices. The marinade infuses bright and bold flavors throughout the meat. Roasting or grilling brings out a caramelized exterior. Each drumstick is tangy, juicy, and aromatic.
Get the Recipe: Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks

Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Chicken legs cook in an air fryer for a crisp exterior and tender interior. Seasonings enhance the natural flavor of the meat. The method is quick and convenient. Each leg is evenly cooked and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

One Pan Chicken Drumsticks and Rice

Drumsticks roast alongside rice and vegetables in one pan. The juices from the meat flavor the rice as it cooks. Vegetables become tender and infused with seasoning. Each serving is a complete meal in one dish.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Chicken Drumsticks and Rice

Easy Broiled Chicken Leg Quarters

Chicken leg quarters broil under high heat for a crispy top layer. Seasonings can be added for a simple but bold flavor. Meat stays moist beneath the crust. Each piece is flavorful and easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Easy Broiled Chicken Leg Quarters

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks are coated in barbecue sauce and air-fried until sticky and caramelized. The exterior crisps lightly while the sauce thickens. Each bite balances smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. Drumsticks come out juicy and ready to serve.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters

Leg quarters cook quickly in the air fryer for crispy skin and tender meat. Seasonings enhance the natural flavor. The method requires minimal cleanup. Each piece is evenly cooked and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters

Barbecue Sauce Chicken Drumsticks in Air Fryer

Chicken drumsticks roast in an air fryer with barbecue sauce coating. The sauce thickens and clings to the skin. Meat stays moist while the exterior caramelizes. Each drumstick is rich in smoky-sweet flavor.
Get the Recipe: Barbecue Sauce Chicken Drumsticks in Air Fryer

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Chicken legs are seasoned and air-fried until the skin is golden and crisp. The interior remains juicy and tender. Minimal oil is required. Each piece has a satisfying crunch.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Soy Sauce Braised Chicken Drumsticks: Flavorful One-Pot

Drumsticks braise in soy sauce and aromatics in a single pot. The meat absorbs savory flavors while cooking slowly. The sauce thickens slightly to coat the chicken. Each bite is tender and umami-rich.
Get the Recipe: Soy Sauce Braised Chicken Drumsticks: Flavorful One-Pot

Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Leg Quarters

Chicken leg quarters cook under pressure in a Buffalo-style sauce. The meat becomes tender and infused with spicy flavor. Quick-cooking makes this method time-efficient. Each piece is saucy and ready to serve.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Leg Quarters

Sheet Pan Chicken Drumsticks, Potatoes & Green Beans

Drumsticks roast alongside potatoes and green beans on a sheet pan. The juices from the chicken flavor the vegetables. Seasoning enhances both meat and sides. Each tray provides a full, colorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Drumsticks, Potatoes & Green Beans

Slow Cooker Chicken Legs recipe

Chicken legs cook low and slow in the slow cooker with seasonings or sauce. Meat becomes tender and juicy without active effort. Flavors meld beautifully during cooking. Each leg is ready to serve with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Legs recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks cook quickly in the air fryer for crispy skin. Seasoning ensures full flavor. The interior stays moist and tender. Each drumstick is evenly cooked and convenient for serving.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

Perfectly Juicy Grilled BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Drumsticks grill over medium heat with barbecue sauce applied throughout. The grilling adds a smoky flavor and slight char. Meat remains tender inside. Each drumstick is sticky, savory, and juicy.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Juicy Grilled BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken Drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks cook in a slow cooker with a honey mustard glaze. The glaze thickens slightly during cooking. Meat stays soft and flavorful. Each drumstick has a balance of sweet and tangy taste.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken Drumsticks

Bacon Wrapped Chicken Drumsticks

Drumsticks wrap in bacon and roast until crisp. The bacon adds flavor and keeps the meat moist. Juices from the bacon enrich the chicken. Each piece is visually appealing and savory.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Chicken Drumsticks

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs

Chicken legs cook in a slow cooker with barbecue sauce. Meat becomes fall-off-the-bone tender. The sauce penetrates the meat for deep flavor. Each leg is sticky, smoky, and easy to serve.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs

Garlic Parmesan Sheet Pan Chicken Drumsticks

Drumsticks roast on a sheet pan coated with garlic and Parmesan. The cheese adds a crispy, flavorful crust. Meat stays juicy underneath. Each drumstick combines savory, cheesy, and aromatic notes.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Sheet Pan Chicken Drumsticks