Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks – Crispy, Juicy & Easy

Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks are your new weeknight hero – bold, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to pull off. We’re talking crispy skin, juicy meat, and the kind of seasoning that makes your whole kitchen smell like you’ve hired a private chef. Ramsay’s signature drumsticks balance smoky paprika, zesty lemon, and aromatic herbs – all cooked to golden perfection. This recipe is a no-fuss, flavor-packed main that fits right in at a casual dinner or a Sunday feast. And yes, the Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks magic happens with simple pantry staples. Ready to cook like a legend in under 40 minutes?

What is Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks?

Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks are a savory blend of simplicity and culinary punch. The recipe takes bone-in, skin-on drumsticks and infuses them with a punchy mix of garlic, herbs, and paprika, seared for golden skin and finished in the oven. It’s not overly complicated – which is exactly the charm. Ramsay’s approach isn’t about fancy – it’s about flavor. These drumsticks are juicy inside, crisp outside, and kissed with buttery garlic and lemon at the finish. Basically, they’re everything weeknight dinners dream of being – flavorful, fast, and family-approved.

Reasons to Try Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks

There are plenty of reasons these Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks should make it into your regular rotation. First, the prep is under 10 minutes. (Yes, you read that right.) Second, they hit the holy trifecta: crispy, juicy, and deeply seasoned. Third, you can make them with what’s already in your pantry. They’re versatile enough for meal prep, but impressive enough for dinner guests. And hey, if you’re dealing with picky eaters? Drumsticks are the gateway meat – tender and kid-friendly, but still sophisticated enough for adults.

Ingredients Needed to Make Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks

Before we roll up our sleeves, let’s talk ingredients. One of the best things about making Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks is that it doesn’t call for anything fancy or hard to pronounce. Nope – just real, flavorful stuff you probably already have sitting in your kitchen. This is comfort food with a gourmet twist – no overnight marinade or obscure spices required.

Let’s break it down:

• Chicken Drumsticks (6 pieces)
  Go for bone-in, skin-on drumsticks. That skin crisps up beautifully, and the bone helps keep the meat juicy and flavorful. If you’ve ever had a dry drumstick, you know how important this is. Aim for medium-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
  This is your flavor base. It helps all those beautiful spices stick to the chicken and gives the skin that golden glow. Use extra virgin if you’ve got it, but any good olive oil will do the job.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon)
  Adds a subtle smokiness and warm color. You can use regular paprika, but if you want a bit more depth, smoked paprika is your best friend here.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon)
  Delivers that deep, savory flavor without the sharpness of fresh garlic. It’s a busy night essential when you don’t want to chop anything.
• Onion Powder (½ teaspoon)
  Just a touch helps round out the flavor and gives a mellow sweetness. It works quietly in the background, tying everything together.
• Dried Thyme or Rosemary (1 teaspoon)
  Pick one, or do a mix of both for extra herby flavor. These dried herbs bring a rustic, earthy note that makes the dish feel like it’s been cooking all day – even though it hasn’t.
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
  Don’t skimp. Salt brings out all the other flavors and helps crisp up that skin. Kosher salt is ideal, but sea salt or table salt works fine too – just adjust slightly if needed.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon)
  Adds just the right amount of heat without overpowering anything. Freshly ground pepper is always worth the extra twist.
• Juice of ½ Lemon
  This is your brightness. Right before serving, a squeeze of fresh lemon cuts through the richness and lifts the whole dish. Don’t skip it – it’s small but mighty.
• Butter (1 tablespoon)
  A little butter near the end of roasting adds a velvety finish. It melts into the chicken and mingles with the garlic for an aromatic boost.
• Garlic Cloves, Smashed (2 cloves)
  Tossed in the pan to infuse everything with that signature Ramsay garlic depth. You’ll smell it and know good things are coming.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional, for garnish)
  Totally optional, but it makes things pop on the plate. It adds freshness and a pop of color – especially if you’re trying to impress dinner guests (or Instagram).

That’s it! No obscure ingredients. No wild goose chase at the store. Just a small but powerful lineup that turns basic chicken into something crave-worthy.

Instructions to Make Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks

We’re about to transform humble chicken drumsticks into something juicy, golden, and totally irresistible. The secret? A little seasoning magic, a quick pan sear for that “restaurant crust,” and a finish in the oven that makes the skin crackle and the inside tender. Here’s how to do it step by step—no fluff, just real talk and helpful tips.

Step 1: Season the Drumsticks Like You Mean It

First things first—start with dry chicken. Really dry. Pat those drumsticks with paper towels like they owe you money. This step is crucial for crispy skin. Moisture is the enemy of crunch.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Now toss in the drumsticks and give them a good massage. Seriously, get in there. Make sure each piece is coated like it just came back from a spa day. You want every bite to be loaded with flavor.

Step 2: Sear for Flavor (Optional… but Worth It)

This step is technically optional, but let me tell you—Gordon would definitely do it. Searing locks in flavor, adds that golden color, and gives the skin a head start on crispiness.

Heat a large skillet (preferably oven-safe) over medium-high heat. Add a small drizzle of oil—just enough to coat the bottom.

Place the drumsticks in, skin-side down, and sear them for 2–3 minutes per side until you see a deep, golden crust forming. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed.

You’re not cooking them through here, just building that gorgeous color and flavor.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

While the drumsticks are getting their sear on, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

If you’re using an oven-safe skillet, great—leave the drumsticks right where they are. If not, transfer them to a baking tray lined with parchment or foil for easy cleanup.

Tuck 2 smashed garlic cloves between the drumsticks. Dot the pan with 1 tablespoon of butter, breaking it into small pieces so it melts evenly while roasting.

Slide the tray into the oven and roast for 25–30 minutes. Flip the drumsticks halfway through to crisp up both sides. You’re aiming for a crispy skin and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Pro Tip: Want extra crispy skin? During the last 5 minutes, switch the oven to broil (just keep a close eye—they can go from golden to oops fast).

Step 4: Finish with Lemon and Love

When the drumsticks are beautifully golden and fully cooked, pull them out of the oven.

Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the hot chicken. That burst of acidity balances the richness and brings the whole dish to life.

Optional: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. It adds a touch of color and freshness.

Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle and gives you time to plate like a pro.

What to Serve with Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks

So you’ve got your Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks roasting away, your kitchen smells incredible, and now you’re wondering, “What do I put on the plate with them?” Don’t worry—we’ve got your back.

These drumsticks go with just about everything, but here are some combos that turn this meal into a full-blown dinner win:

• Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter rice for something comforting and classic.
• A crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly.
• Roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts caramelize beautifully in the same oven.
• Want something extra chef-y? Pair it with Gordon Ramsay’s Braised Cabbage. It’s hearty, flavorful, and the perfect companion to juicy chicken.

And if you’re in the mood for dessert (and who isn’t?), these drumsticks would love to be followed by Gordon Ramsay’s Apple Crumble—warm, cozy, and just the right amount of sweet.

Key Tips for Making Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks

Let’s talk kitchen wisdom. Making Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks isn’t hard, but a few small tweaks can make a big difference. Here are some helpful tips to make sure they come out perfectly every time:

1. Dry those drumsticks. Seriously—moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Pat them with paper towels before seasoning.
2. Don’t skip the sear. It adds flavor, color, and texture. Plus, it gives the final dish that “cheffy” feel.
3. Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should hit 165°F inside. Guessing leads to dry meat or worse—undercooked chicken.
4. Lemon is non-negotiable. That little squeeze at the end adds brightness and balance. You’ll notice the difference.
5. Let them rest. Give them 5 minutes before serving. It locks in the juices so you’re not losing flavor to the cutting board.

Want to get creative? Try brushing the drumsticks with a bit of Gordon Ramsay’s Barbecue Sauce halfway through roasting for a smoky twist.

How to Store and Reheat Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks the Right Way

Made too many? Lucky you. Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks make amazing leftovers, and they’re easy to reheat without drying out.

To store:
Let the drumsticks cool completely. Then place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay good for up to 4 days.

To reheat in the oven:
Preheat to 350°F, cover the drumsticks loosely with foil to prevent them from drying out, and heat for about 15 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 3–5 minutes for crispy skin.

To reheat in the air fryer:
400°F for 4–5 minutes. This brings back that crispy bite in no time.

Want to use them in something different? Chop up the leftover chicken and toss it into a salad or wrap with some Gordon Ramsay’s Mayonnaise for a quick and tasty lunch.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a Ramsay fan or just a chicken-lover in search of your next weeknight MVP, these Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks are the answer. They’re quick, packed with flavor, and they make you feel like you’ve just pulled off something truly delicious—without breaking a sweat.

Bookmark this one, and the next time you’re staring at a pack of chicken drumsticks thinking “meh,” remember—you’ve got a secret weapon now. And if you loved this, don’t miss our crowd-favorite Gordon Ramsay Pan-Fried Salmon for your next protein-packed meal.

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Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks

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Get ready to wow your taste buds with these Gordon Ramsay Chicken Drumsticks—crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. This flavor-packed main course uses simple pantry staples like garlic, paprika, and olive oil, then finishes with a touch of lemon for brightness. The recipe calls for a quick sear and a hot oven roast for that signature restaurant-style crunch. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend family feast—easy to make, impossible to forget.

• Author: RAMSAY
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: British

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 chicken drumsticks (skin-on, bone-in)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 1 tablespoon butter (for finishing)
• 2 garlic cloves, smashed
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

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Instructions

1. Dry and Season the Chicken
Start by patting the drumsticks dry with paper towels—this helps the skin get nice and crispy. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken in the mixture until each piece is well coated.

2. Sear for Extra Flavor (Optional)
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil and place the drumsticks in the pan. Sear for about 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. This adds a layer of flavor and helps crisp the skin.

3. Oven Roast to Finish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the drumsticks to a baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Scatter the smashed garlic cloves and small bits of butter around the chicken. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the skin is golden and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).

 

4. Add the Final Touches
Once out of the oven, drizzle the lemon juice over the hot drumsticks. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if using. Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy every juicy bite!

Notes

• Don’t skip drying the chicken—wet skin steams, dry skin crisps.
• Want more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes.
• This recipe scales easily—double up for larger gatherings.
• Leftovers are fantastic for wraps, salads, or meal prep.