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Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

The Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks Recipe is bold, juicy, and packed with flavor. These oven-roasted drumsticks feature a rich spice marinade and a sweet-savory glaze. The result is crispy skin and tender meat every time. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this easy recipe uses simple ingredients but delivers restaurant-style results.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking dish or roasting pan
  • Aluminum foil
  • Basting brush
  • Meat thermometer
  • Tongs
  • Small bowl

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken drumsticks – 8 pieces (about 2 lbs)
  • Olive oil – 3 tablespoons
  • Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
  • Smoked paprika – 1 teaspoon
  • Sweet paprika – 1 teaspoon
  • Onion powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Dried thyme – 1 teaspoon
  • Dried rosemary – 1 teaspoon
  • Cayenne pepper – 1/2 teaspoon, adjust to taste
  • Salt – 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon, freshly squeezed
  • Honey – 1 tablespoon
  • Soy sauce – 1 tablespoon
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven

  • Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Line a baking dish with foil to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. This simple step makes cleanup easier and helps the drumsticks roast properly.

Dry Chicken

  • Pat the chicken drumsticks completely dry using paper towels. Removing moisture helps the skin become crispy during roasting and prevents steaming, which can affect texture and overall flavor.

Make Marinade

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, paprika, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, cayenne, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well until a smooth, fragrant marinade forms.

Coat Chicken

  • Add drumsticks to the bowl and coat thoroughly with the marinade. Make sure every piece is well covered. Let them rest for at least 10 minutes for better flavor absorption.

Arrange Drumsticks

  • Arrange the marinated drumsticks in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Leave space between each piece so they roast evenly and develop a crisp, golden exterior.

Prepare Glaze

  • In a small bowl, mix honey and soy sauce until smooth. This glaze will be used later to add a sweet and savory finish that enhances both flavor and appearance.

Initial Roast

  • Place the baking dish in the oven and roast for 30 minutes. The high heat will start crisping the skin and build a rich golden color on the drumsticks.

Apply Glaze

  • Remove the dish and brush each drumstick with the honey-soy glaze. Return to the oven and cook for another 12 to 15 minutes until caramelized and glossy.

Check Doneness

  • Check doneness using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. If needed, cook a few more minutes until fully cooked and juices run clear.

Rest and Serve

  • Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Resting helps lock in juices and improves overall flavor.

Notes

  • Pat chicken dry for crispy skin
  • Marinate longer for deeper flavor
  • Do not overcrowd the pan
  • Use thermometer for perfect doneness
  • Broil briefly for extra crisp texture
Keyword Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks Recipe