Easy Chicken Drumsticks

Easy Chicken Drumsticks for Baby (9 Months +)

If you are looking for quick, easy lunch or dinner ideas, this Easy Chicken Drumstick recipe is a wonderful family meal I always come back to when I’m not sure what to make. Everyone always enjoys it—it comes out so soft and flavorful, and I know both kids are eating happily. With just a few simple steps, these chicken drumsticks turn out amazing every time. You have to try it for your little ones, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself licking the bone clean too!

Chicken drumsticks are one of my favorite baby-led weaning foods because they’re simple, versatile, and truly family-friendly. Babies love the taste, parents love the nutrition, and best of all, everyone gets to share the same meal. Whether shredded into soft pieces or served as a whole drumstick for little hands to grab, this recipe is a must-try for families looking to make mealtime nourishing and fun.

Why Chicken Drumsticks Are Great for Babies:

Unlike purées or spoon-feeding, baby-led weaning (BLW) encourages little ones to explore food at their own pace through touch, taste, and self-feeding. Drumsticks are particularly great for BLW because they’re easy to grasp, soft enough for babies to gum, and packed with nutrients that support growth and development. In fact, chicken drumsticks often double as an excellent teether, keeping little hands busy while helping strengthen oral motor skills.

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Drumsticks:

Chicken drumsticks are more than just tasty, they’re incredibly nutritious for babies and toddlers.

• Protein: A key building block for muscle, tissue, and overall growth.

• Iron & Zinc: Important for brain development and immune health. Iron especially plays a vital role in forming hemoglobin, which helps carry oxygen throughout the body.

• B Vitamins (B6 & Niacin): Found in the dark meat, these vitamins support energy metabolism and a healthy nervous system.

• Healthy Fats: Provide energy and fuel your baby’s developing brain.

Pairing chicken drumsticks with sides like mashed sweet potato, soft roasted veggies, or tender whole grains such as quinoa or rice makes for a balanced, wholesome meal. They’re also perfect for meal prep—you can roast several at once and store them for quick meals throughout the week.

How to Serve Chicken Drumsticks for Babies:

• 6+ months (advanced eaters): If your baby is chewing well, you can offer drumsticks after carefully removing the skin and the small thin bone within the flesh. At this stage, many parents find that babies simply enjoy holding and gnawing on the meat, which doubles as a fun teether.

• 9+ months: At this age, you can safely serve a whole drumstick (with skin and thin bones removed). Babies will love holding it and feeding themselves. Alternatively, you can shred the chicken into small, soft pieces for spoon-feeding or easy finger food.

Cooking Tips for Success:

• Bake or roast the drumsticks until the meat is tender and falls off the bone easily.

• Always remove the skin before serving—it can be tough and hard for little ones to chew.

• Check for and carefully remove the small bone sometimes found inside the drumstick flesh.

What You Need:

Baking Tray 

Mixing Bowl

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