Ever since I first made these Cajun chicken drumsticks, they've become a regular at our dinner table. There's just something special about them - the spice mix gives this nice kick and amazing herbal flavors that make every bite really delicious.
What I love most is that the recipe is foolproof and simple. You don't need to be a master chef or buy any fancy ingredients - just the right spices, fresh lemon, and some time in the oven. And the smell while they're cooking? Amazing!
The secret is in how all the ingredients work together. The smoked paprika gives it depth, the lemon adds freshness, and the thyme and oregano tie everything together perfectly. That's probably why, even though it's a simple dish, we still haven't gotten tired of it.
Cajun Chicken Drumsticks bring the bold flavors of Louisiana to your dinner table. This dish combines juicy chicken with a spicy, aromatic blend of herbs and spices, creating a meal that's both comforting and exciting. Rooted in the resourceful cooking traditions of Acadian settlers, these drumsticks offer a delicious way to experience the rich culinary heritage of Cajun cuisine.
In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, and basil. Mix well to ensure all spices are evenly distributed.
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade adhere better to the meat.
Place the drumsticks in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle the prepared spice mix over the chicken, making sure to cover all sides. Rub the spices into the meat to ensure even coverage.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For best results, marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.
When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
Place a wire rack on a baking sheet. If you have special chicken leg stands, you can use those instead. These methods allow air to circulate around the drumsticks, resulting in more even cooking and crispier skin.
Arrange the marinated drumsticks on the wire rack or chicken leg stands, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking and browning.
Place the baking sheet with the rack or stands in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 74°C (165°F) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. There's no need to turn the drumsticks during cooking when using a rack or stands.
After removing from the oven, let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring moist and flavorful chicken.
Servings 4
* Disclaimer: The provided nutritional values are estimates only. Actual calorie and nutrient content can vary significantly depending on the specific products used, exact quantities, and preparation method. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.