Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Drumsticks
This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Drumsticks recipe is bursting with bright citrus and fragrant herbs, perfect for an easy, flavorful weeknight dinner!
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 lemons juiced and zested
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended.
Marinate the Chicken
- Add the 8 chicken drumsticks into the marinade bowl. Toss thoroughly to coat every piece. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pan
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment. Place a wire rack on the sheet if available and arrange drumsticks on it for even cooking and crispier skin.
Roast the Chicken
- Roast the drumsticks for 35-40 minutes, turning once halfway through, until skin is golden and crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest and Serve
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite sides like salad, steamed vegetables, or rice dishes.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Roasting pan
- Wire rack
- Microplane
- Grater
- Juicer
- Measuring spoons
- Instant-read thermometer
Notes
- Marinate the chicken up to 4 hours ahead to deepen flavors.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best crispiness.
- Substitute orange juice and zest for a sweeter citrus twist.
- Fresh herbs can be replaced with dried herbs at one-third the quantity.
