20 Spicy Drumstick Chicken Recipes for Weeknights

Posted on April 1, 2025

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When it comes to quick and delicious weeknight meals, few options can rival the humble chicken drumstick. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor – what’s not to love? And when you add a spicy kick to the mix, things get really exciting. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and bold, we’ve got you covered.

In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering spicy drumstick chicken recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From sweet and sour to smoky and savory, these recipes will take your taste buds on a thrilling ride. So grab some chicken wings, get ready to heat things up, and let’s dive in!

Honey Garlic Baked Drumsticks

Honey Garlic Baked Drumsticks
Sweet and savory, these Honey Garlic Baked Drumsticks are a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day snack!

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Place the drumsticks on the prepared sheet.
4. Brush the honey-garlic mixture evenly over the drumsticks.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks and sprinkle with pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Crispy Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Crispy Fried Chicken Drumsticks
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this mouth-watering recipe for crispy fried chicken drumsticks!

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip each drumstick into the buttermilk, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
5. Fry the drumsticks for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Spicy Buffalo Drumsticks

Spicy Buffalo Drumsticks
Get ready to level up your snack game with these spicy buffalo drumsticks! A perfect combination of crispy, flavorful wings and a tangy sauce.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together hot sauce and butter until smooth.
3. Add vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. Add drumsticks to the bowl; toss to coat evenly.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil; spray with cooking spray. Arrange drumsticks in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Remove from oven; let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

BBQ Glazed Drumsticks

BBQ Glazed Drumsticks
Get ready to impress your family and friends with these sticky and savory drumsticks, smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
4. Place drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet and brush with vegetable oil.
5. Spoon the BBQ glaze evenly over the drumsticks.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Lemon Pepper Roasted Drumsticks

Lemon Pepper Roasted Drumsticks
A flavorful and aromatic twist on classic drumsticks, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of pepper to create a mouthwatering snack. Perfect for game day gatherings or family dinners.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tbsp black pepper
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Add drumsticks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the lemon-pepper mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks and toss again to combine.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange drumsticks in a single layer.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks

Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this easy and flavorful recipe for Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks!

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the marinated drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Garlic Parmesan Drumsticks

Garlic Parmesan Drumsticks
Elevate your snacking game with this easy and addictive recipe for Garlic Parmesan Drumsticks. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with savory flavor.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound chicken drumsticks
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together garlic, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
3. Dip each drumstick into the garlic-Parmesan mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Sweet and Sour Drumsticks

Sweet and Sour Drumsticks
Sweet and Sour Drumsticks Recipe

Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this sweet and tangy twist on traditional drumsticks! This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the drumsticks on the baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Smoky Paprika Drumsticks

Smoky Paprika Drumsticks
Transform your drumsticks into a flavorful delight with this simple recipe! A perfect combination of smokiness and spice, these drumsticks are sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the drumsticks on the sheet, leaving some space between each.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks, then sprinkle the paprika mixture evenly over them.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Maple Mustard Glazed Drumsticks

Maple Mustard Glazed Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with these sticky and savory drumsticks, smothered in a rich maple mustard glaze. Perfect for parties or a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place drumsticks on the sheet, leaving space between each.
4. Brush the glaze all over the drumsticks, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Asian-Style Sticky Drumsticks

Asian-Style Sticky Drumsticks
Get ready to enjoy a sweet and savory twist on traditional drumsticks! This recipe combines the richness of soy sauce, honey, and ginger to create a sticky glaze that will leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Add the drumsticks to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
7. Brush the sticky glaze (remaining marinade) over the drumsticks during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Herb-Roasted Drumsticks

Herb-Roasted Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with this easy and aromatic recipe that combines the savory goodness of drumsticks with the bright, herbaceous flavors of fresh herbs. Perfect for game day gatherings or everyday snacking!

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the drumsticks to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the herb mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the drumsticks in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Cajun Spiced Drumsticks

Cajun Spiced Drumsticks
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these Cajun-inspired drumsticks! Tender, juicy chicken legs smothered in a bold blend of spices and herbs that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s or Zatarain’s)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange drumsticks in a single layer.
4. Brush the tops of the drumsticks with olive oil and sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over each piece.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Sriracha Lime Drumsticks

Sriracha Lime Drumsticks
Sriracha Lime Drumsticks Recipe

Add a burst of flavor to your snack time with these Sriracha Lime Drumsticks! Tender and juicy chicken drumsticks smothered in a spicy and tangy sauce.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup Sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce, lime juice, olive oil, and garlic powder.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Balsamic Glazed Drumsticks

Balsamic Glazed Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with these irresistible drumsticks smothered in a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for game day or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the drumsticks to the bowl and toss until they’re fully coated in the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and arrange the drumsticks in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Jamaican Jerk Drumsticks

Jamaican Jerk Drumsticks
Satisfy your cravings with these flavorful drumsticks infused with the bold and aromatic flavors of Jamaican jerk seasoning. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the drumsticks in a shallow dish and brush both sides with the jerk mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and arrange the drumsticks in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh scallions, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Greek-Style Lemon Oregano Drumsticks

Greek-Style Lemon Oregano Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful and aromatic Greek-inspired drumsticks, infused with the brightness of lemon and the warmth of oregano.

Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the drumsticks in a single layer. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Korean Gochujang Drumsticks

Korean Gochujang Drumsticks
Get ready to level up your snack game with these addictive drumsticks smothered in a sweet and spicy gochujang glaze. This Korean-inspired recipe is perfect for game day or as a quick appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and rice vinegar.
3. Add drumsticks to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange drumsticks on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with green onions before serving.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Garlic Butter Drumsticks

Garlic Butter Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with this simple and delicious recipe for garlic butter drumsticks. This flavorful twist on the classic chicken wing is perfect for game day, parties, or just a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: parsley flakes or chopped fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and paprika until well combined.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange drumsticks on the sheet in a single layer.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the drumsticks.
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with parsley flakes or chopped fresh herbs, if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Pineapple Glazed Drumsticks

Pineapple Glazed Drumsticks
Sweet and tangy, these pineapple glazed drumsticks are a perfect twist on traditional BBQ drums. With only a few ingredients, you can easily elevate your game-day snacks or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 drumsticks
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place drumsticks in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the drums.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Summary

Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these mouth-watering drumstick chicken recipes! From classic buffalo wings to international flavors like teriyaki and gochujang, there’s something for everyone. Try honey garlic baked drumsticks for a sweet and savory twist, or crispy fried drumsticks for a satisfying crunch. Or, go bold with sriracha lime drumsticks or Jamaican jerk drumsticks. With 20 different recipes to choose from, you’ll never get bored of this tasty and easy-to-make protein again.

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