Flavorful Jerk Chicken Drumsticks (Oven Method)
Bold, smoky, spicy, and a little sweet—these Jerk Chicken Drumsticks are a total showstopper. No grill? No problem. This oven-baked version delivers maximum flavor and fall-off-the-bone tenderness using a blend of dry spices, a touch of jerk seasoning, and a smart roasting method that keeps the chicken juicy inside and crispy outside.
The best part? Most of the flavor-building happens in the marinade, and the oven does the rest. Paired with veggies and served over rice or mashed potatoes, this is Caribbean comfort food made easy.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is all about balanced spice, juicy meat, and minimal fuss. The combo of dry and wet jerk seasonings delivers complexity, while the chicken stock underneath keeps everything tender and savory as it roasts. Bell peppers and onions add sweetness and color. The technique of pouring liquid beside the chicken (not over it!) ensures the spices stick where they belong.
It’s a great make-ahead meal and totally weeknight-friendly. Bonus: the aroma while it bakes is unbeatable.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 8–10 chicken drumsticks
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil (as a binder)
- 3–4 tbsp mild jerk seasoning paste
- ½ cup chicken stock
- 1 tbsp vinegar + water (for cleaning chicken)
Veggies:
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 medium onion
- 3 garlic cloves
Swaps and Notes
- Jerk Seasoning: Use hot jerk paste for more heat, or tone it down with honey or mango chutney for sweetness.
- Chicken Cut: Works with thighs or wings too—adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Veggie Boost: Add carrots, zucchini, or sliced plantains for a one-pan meal.
Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Clean drumsticks in vinegar water, then pat dry thoroughly. This helps seasoning stick and avoids sogginess.
2. Season with Love
Sprinkle the salt over the chicken first. Then drizzle with olive oil—this acts as a binder. Add dry seasonings (brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, and black pepper) and mix until fully coated.
Now, add the jerk seasoning paste. Use 3–4 tablespoons or more to generously coat the drumsticks. Massage into the chicken, then cover and marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Bake It Right
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish in a single layer.
Pour chicken stock into the corner of the pan, not directly on top of the chicken, so you don’t wash away the seasoning.
4. Add Veggies
Chop your bell peppers, onion, and garlic, and scatter them over and around the chicken.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Braise and Brown
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and baste the chicken with the juices from the pan. Repeat this every 5 minutes for 15 minutes (about 3 times total).
Continue baking, uncovered, until the chicken is deeply golden and the skin slightly crisp—keep an eye on it during the final 10 minutes.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the oil binder—it locks in the spices.
- Watch closely during the final browning stage to avoid overcooking.
- Use a meat thermometer for peace of mind: chicken is done at 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve these jerk drums with:
- Steamed rice or buttery mashed potatoes
- Roasted sweet potatoes or coconut rice for Caribbean flair
- A side of slaw or sautéed greens for balance
For drinks, try a tropical twist like this refreshing Rainbow Sangria, or keep it cool with sparkling limeade.
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Use oven or air fryer to re-crisp, or microwave with a splash of stock.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo for another Southern-inspired comfort dish.
- Caramel Apple Nachos for a fun and fruity dessert.
- Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins to round out the meal with a cozy baked treat.
- One-Pan Breakfast Bake if you’ve got leftover jerk chicken to repurpose the next morning!
Final Thoughts
These Jerk Chicken Drumsticks are a fiery, flavorful way to spice up your weeknight dinner or impress at your next gathering. The oven method keeps things simple, but the results are anything but basic.
Tried it? Leave a comment below and tell us your favorite side dish to pair it with. And don’t forget to follow along at ChefManiac.com for more real-life deliciousness!
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