Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Drumsticks

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Drumsticks 🍋🍗

These Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Drumsticks are a bright, flavorful, and juicy dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and aromatic herbs creates a mouthwatering meal that’s simple to prepare yet packed with flavor. With their crispy skin and tender meat, these drumsticks are sure to become a family favorite.

Let’s dive into how to make these delicious, oven-roasted chicken drumsticks step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Juicy & Flavorful : The marinade infuses the chicken with lemony brightness and garlicky goodness.
2. Simple Ingredients : Made with pantry staples and fresh citrus for maximum flavor.
3. Versatile : Perfect as a main dish paired with sides or served as part of a larger spread.
4. Easy Cleanup : Just one baking dish needed for minimal mess.
5. Customizable : Add fresh herbs or spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Serves 3–4)

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 4 cloves garlic , minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon , juiced and zested
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper , to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley or thyme , chopped (for serving )

Suggested Sides:

• Roasted vegetables (like carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts )
• Fresh green salad
• Crusty bread (to soak up the juices )

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) .
2. Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a light drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic , olive oil , lemon juice , lemon zest , dried oregano , salt , and pepper .

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl or directly in the baking dish.
2. Pour the marinade over the drumsticks, ensuring they are evenly coated. Use your hands or tongs to rub the mixture into the chicken for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Roast the Chicken

1. Arrange the drumsticks in the prepared baking dish, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
2. Roast in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes , or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) .
   • Tip : For extra crispy skin, broil the drumsticks for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and added freshness.
3. Serve hot and enjoy the zesty, garlicky goodness of these Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Drumsticks !

Tips for Success

1. Pat the Chicken Dry : Before coating, pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up in the oven.
2. Use Fresh Lemon : Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest provide brighter, more vibrant flavors than bottled alternatives.
3. Add Fresh Herbs : Stir fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days . Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to retain crispiness.
5. Freeze for Later : Freeze cooked drumsticks in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Perfect Pairings

These Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Drumsticks pair beautifully with:

• Roasted Vegetables : Serve with roasted carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts for a hearty side.
• Fresh Salad : A crisp arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the dish perfectly.
• Rice or Quinoa : Spoon the pan juices over rice or quinoa for a flavorful, filling meal.
• Garlic Bread : Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 4 servings)

• Calories : ~250 kcal
• Protein : ~25g
• Carbohydrates : ~5g
• Fat : ~16g
• Fiber : ~1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Drumsticks are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their juicy meat, crispy skin, and zesty lemon-garlic marinade, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to love. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, entertaining guests, or simply craving something comforting yet bright, this recipe is sure to impress.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the herbs, add spices, or pair it with different sides to make it your own. So grab your drumsticks, zest that lemon, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.