Sometimes, the best meals are the ones that come together effortlessly. I remember one weekend when I had friends coming over, and I needed something delicious but low-maintenance. I didn’t want to stand over the stove flipping meat or dealing with complicated prep. That’s when I thought of roasted chicken drumsticks—simple, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.
I tossed the drumsticks with olive oil, garlic, and a blend of aromatic herbs, then let the oven do the work. As they roasted, my kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling chicken and spices. By the time they came out, golden brown and crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, I knew I had a winning dish. We gathered around the table, tearing into them with our hands, and not a single piece was left by the end of the night.
Since then, this recipe has become my go-to for easy family dinners and casual gatherings. It’s foolproof, flavorful, and requires almost no effort—just season, bake, and enjoy.
Oven-Roasted Garlic Herb Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a slight glaze)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
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Season the Drumsticks:
- In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, thyme, cayenne (if using), lemon juice, and honey.
- Add the chicken drumsticks and toss until fully coated.
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Bake to Perfection:
- Arrange the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t touching.
- Roast for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
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Final Touches & Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These roasted drumsticks are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with garlic-herb goodness. They’re easy to make, perfect for meal prep, and great for feeding a crowd.
