1-Preheat and prep the pan: Set oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with high-heat parchment or lightly oil it. This prevents sticking and eases cleanup.

2-Arrange drumsticks: Place 8 skin-on drumsticks in a single layer on the sheet, spaced for air flow. Pat dry if needed for crisp skin.

3-Mix seasoning paste: Combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or minced garlic), 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne in a bowl. For vegan, use on tofu; low-sodium, reduce salt.

4-Coat thoroughly: Brush or rub paste on each drumstick. Hands work best for even coverage. Let rest 10-20 minutes or marinate up to overnight for deeper flavor.

5-Bake to perfection: Cook uncovered 40 minutes until internal temp hits 165°F (74°C) at thickest part, not touching bone. Check at 30 minutes; tent with foil if browning fast. Flip halfway for evenness in convection ovens.

6-Finish and rest: Baste with pan juices. Rest 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley. Serve with lemon for brightness. Vegan swaps like cauliflower need 5-10 fewer minutes.