Lemon Pepper Roasted Drumsticks
Juicy chicken drumsticks roasted to perfection with bright lemon, aromatic pepper, garlic, and a touch of olive oil. This effortless dish delivers bold flavor, a crisp skin, and cozy comforting vibes—great for weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 pieces bone-in chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- to taste extra lemon wedges and fresh herbs for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or a light coat of cooking spray for easy cleanup.
- Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. Dry skin helps achieve a crisp finish once roasted.
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, pepper, garlic powder, oregano or thyme, and salt until well combined.
- Add the drumsticks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. If you have a moment, let them marinate for 10 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Arrange the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, skin side up for maximum crispness.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crisp. If you like extra crispness, broil for the last 2–3 minutes while watching closely.
- Remove from the oven and rest for 5 minutes before serving. Squeeze a little extra lemon juice over the top if desired and garnish with fresh herbs.