Extra-Crispy Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks (Oven or Air Fryer)

🕒 Time

• Prep: 20 minutes

• Marinate: 30–60 minutes (optional but recommended)

• Cook: 35–45 minutes

🍽 Serves

4–5 people (6–8 drumsticks)

🛒 Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 6–8 chicken drumsticks (skin removed for extra crisp, optional)

• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

For the Crispy Coating

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup regular breadcrumbs

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp dried parsley

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 2 tbsp olive oil (mix into crumbs for extra crunch)

Optional Cheesy Stuffed Version (like the one pictured)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup shredded cheddar

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley

• ½ tsp garlic powder

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

2. Add drumsticks and coat well.

3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).

2️⃣ Prepare the Coating

1. In a shallow bowl, mix:

   • Panko

   • Regular breadcrumbs

   • Parmesan

   • Seasonings

2. Stir in olive oil to lightly moisten crumbs (this helps browning).

3️⃣ Coat the Chicken

1. Remove drumsticks from marinade.

2. Let excess drip off.

3. Press firmly into breadcrumb mixture.

4. Place on a parchment-lined baking tray or air fryer rack.

5. For extra crunch: spray lightly with cooking oil.

🔥 Cooking Methods

🧑‍🍳 Oven Method (Best for Large Batch)

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Place chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet (for airflow).

3. Bake for 35–45 minutes, turning halfway.

4. Internal temp should reach 165°F (74°C).

5. Broil last 2–3 minutes for extra crisp.

🌪 Air Fryer Method (Crispiest)

1. Preheat to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook in a single layer.

3. Air fry 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. Spray lightly again mid-cook if needed.

🧀 Cheesy Stuffed Cutlet Version (Optional)

1. Butterfly a chicken breast (slice horizontally but not fully through).

2. Mix mozzarella, cheddar, parsley, and garlic powder.

3. Stuff inside and secure with toothpicks.

4. Dip in:

   • Flour

   • Egg wash

   • Breadcrumb mixture

5. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes or until 165°F internal temp.

6. Rest 5 minutes before slicing.

🧂 Pro Tips for EXTRA Crunch

• Use panko + Parmesan combo (key to that rough texture).

• Mix a little oil into breadcrumbs.

• Bake on a rack, not flat on a tray.

• Don’t overcrowd.

• Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving.

🌿 Optional Flavor Variations

• 🔥 Spicy: Add ½ tsp cayenne or chili flakes.

• 🍯 Sweet heat: Brush with hot honey after baking.

• 🧄 Garlic butter finish: Brush melted garlic butter before serving.

• 🍋 Lemon herb: Add lemon zest to crumbs.