How do you prepare best oven fried chicken Drumsticks?

#### Preparation of Oven-Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Here's a step-by-step guide to preparing the best oven-fried chicken drumsticks:

1. **Preparation of Chicken Drumsticks**: Start by patting the chicken drumsticks dry to avoid excess moisture that can keep the skin from crisping. Some recipes suggest removing the skin from the chicken drumsticks for a healthier option.

2. **Marination**: Marinating the chicken can enhance its flavor. One recipe suggests using Greek yogurt, mustard, and garlic for the marinade, and letting the chicken marinate for 8 hours or overnight.

3. **Seasoning**: Decide on the herbs and spices you want to use to season your drumsticks. A simple mix could include smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, freshly cracked black pepper, and salt. Another recipe suggests using a 3-ingredient barbecue rub-like seasoning, which includes a touch of baking powder to make the drumsticks crispy.

4. **Coating**: After marinating and seasoning, the chicken drumsticks can be coated. One method involves coating the chicken with seasoned flour, placing it on a baking sheet with melted butter. Another method involves dredging the chicken in flour, then in an egg mixture, and finally coating it with a mixture of breadcrumbs and spices.

5. **Baking**: Preheat the oven to a temperature between 350F to 425F, depending on the recipe,[4],,[6]]. Place the seasoned drumsticks on a baking sheet with enough space around each so they're not touching. You can line the baking sheet with foil or paper for easier cleanup,. Bake the drumsticks for about 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 170-175F. It's best to use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the chicken's internal temperature before removing it from the oven. According to the USDA, the safe minimum temperature for chicken is 165F/74C, but it's actually best to cook dark meat (thighs and drumsticks) to 175F to 180F because this softens the connective tissue.

6. **Serving and Storage**: Serve the drumsticks hot out of the oven. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days,[7]]. To reheat, do so gently, covered, in the microwave at 50% power, or enjoy them cold.

Remember, the exact baking time will vary a bit, due to varying oven temperatures as well as drumstick size. Enjoy your oven-fried chicken drumsticks!