Tired of complicated dinner recipes that leave you spending more time in the kitchen than enjoying your meal? Then this one-pan lemon herb roasted chicken drumsticks recipe is perfect for you! It's a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. Homemade cooking doesn't have to be difficult; this recipe proves that delicious dishes can also be easy recipes.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely crispy skin.
Preparing the Chicken:
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Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps them brown beautifully in the skillet.
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In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
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Rub the mixture generously all over the chicken drumsticks, making sure each one is well coated. This step adds flavor and ensures even cooking.
Roasting the Chicken:
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Arrange the chicken drumsticks in a single layer in an oven-safe skillet or roasting pan. Don't overcrowd the pan, as this will hinder proper browning and cooking.
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Tuck the lemon slices and herbs amongst the chicken drumsticks. The lemon adds a bright, zesty flavor, while the herbs provide a fragrant aroma and enhance the taste.
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Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these delicious lemon herb roasted chicken drumsticks immediately. They're fantastic on their own, but you can also pair them with roasted vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or broccoli for a complete and healthy meal. A simple side salad adds freshness and a nice counterpoint to the richness of the chicken.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra crispy skin: Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the olive oil mixture for a kick.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like oregano, parsley, or sage.
- Add vegetables: Toss your favorite vegetables (potatoes, carrots, onions) with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them alongside the chicken.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with rice, couscous, or quinoa for a hearty and satisfying dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This easy chicken drumstick recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and provides a delicious and healthy meal the whole family will enjoy. These quick dinner ideas are perfect for those looking for simple, yet flavorful homemade cooking without sacrificing taste or nutrition. It's a recipe that consistently delivers satisfying results, earning its place among the best recipes. Enjoy!