Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy meal? Then look no further! These lemon chicken drumsticks are the perfect answer. Packed with zesty lemon flavor and tender, juicy chicken, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. It's a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both simple and incredibly satisfying. Get ready to elevate your dinner game!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for extra moisture)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This simple step ensures your chicken cooks perfectly.
Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely in the oven.
Make the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. This flavorful marinade is the secret to tender and zesty chicken.
Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the marinade. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
Bake the chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken drumsticks in a single layer in a baking dish. If using, pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the dish. This adds extra moisture and prevents the chicken from drying out.
Roast to perfection: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Garnish and serve: Once cooked, garnish the lemon chicken drumsticks with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy! This simple garnish elevates the dish's presentation.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Chicken Drumsticks:
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: Ensure the chicken drumsticks are in a single layer for even cooking.
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks: This results in juicier and more flavorful chicken.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more or less lemon juice, garlic, or herbs to suit your preferences.
- For crispier skin: Broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Variations:
- Spicy Lemon Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Lemon Chicken: Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives to the marinade for a Mediterranean twist.
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or basil.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-5g
These lemon chicken drumsticks are a simple, healthy, and delicious meal option that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of juicy chicken and zesty lemon creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. Give this easy recipe a try and enjoy a burst of sunshine on your plate!