How Long to Bake Drumsticks at 375°F
When baking chicken drumsticks at 375°F, knowing the right cooking time helps you achieve juicy, flavorful meat with a crisp skin. The ideal baking time for drumsticks at this temperature usually falls between 40 and 45 minutes. However, it’s important to remember that factors like size, thickness, and oven variations can influence the cooking duration.
To ensure perfectly cooked drumsticks, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) according to food safety guidelines. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the drumstick without touching the bone for an accurate reading. Cooking until this temperature is essential for safety and ensuring the meat stays juicy.
Before baking, season your drumsticks with your favorite spices or marinade. Placing them on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper makes cleanup easier and helps prevent sticking. For even cooking, position the drumsticks with some space in between so hot air can circulate around each piece.
Steps to Bake Drumsticks at 375°F
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Make sure it reaches the correct temperature before placing the drumsticks in.
- Prepare the chicken by patting it dry and seasoning as desired. You can also brush them with a bit of oil or sauce for extra flavor.
- Arrange the drumsticks on your baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
- Place the tray in the oven and bake for approximately 40 to 45 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer around the 40-minute mark. If it’s below 165°F, continue baking and check every 5 minutes.
- Once cooked, let the drumsticks rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Resting helps juices settle and keeps the meat moist.
Tips for Perfectly Baked Drumsticks
- If the skin isn’t crispy enough, broil the drumsticks for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Using a wire rack over the baking sheet allows hot air to circulate all around the chicken, creating a crisper exterior.
- Marinate or brine the chicken beforehand for extra flavor and juiciness.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause uneven cooking and steaming instead of roasting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not checking the internal temperature — relying solely on cooking time can result in undercooked or overcooked chicken.
- Baking at too high or too low a temperature, which can affect texture and safety.
- Forgetting to rest the chicken after baking, leading to loss of juices when cut.
Keep these tips in mind, and your drumsticks will come out tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time you bake at 375°F. Remember, patience and checking the internal temperature are key to great results.