Savor the robust flavors of these moist and tender herb baked chicken drumsticks. Infused with a zesty blend of lemon and garlic, the drumsticks are baked to golden perfection, resulting in a satisfying crust with a juicy inside. This simple dish, bursting with the aromatic flavors of Italian seasoning and fresh parsley, is easy to prepare and perfect for any meal.
The ingredients for this recipe are everyday items that can be found in most kitchens. However, if you don't usually cook with Italian seasoning, this blend of herbs including oregano, thyme, and basil can be found in the spice aisle of your local supermarket. Fresh parsley is a must for this recipe, offering a bright, slightly bitter flavor that complements the savory drumsticks. Be sure to purchase fresh parsley from the produce section, rather than dried parsley flakes.
Ingredients for Herb Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Chicken drumsticks: These are the star of the dish. They're marinated and then baked to golden perfection.
Olive oil: Used as part of the marinade to help the herbs and spices adhere to the chicken.
Lemon juice: Adds a tangy zest to the marinade, enhancing the flavor of the chicken.
Garlic: Provides a robust and aromatic flavor to the marinade.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the chicken and marinade.
Pepper: Adds a bit of heat to the dish.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that provide a distinct and savory flavor to the chicken.
Fresh parsley: Used to garnish the finished dish, adding a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Cooking spray: Used to ensure the chicken doesn't stick to the sheet pan during baking.
One reader, Chad Castaneda says:
This herb baked chicken drumsticks recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and the drumsticks come out so juicy and tender. It's now a staple in my kitchen, and my family can't get enough of it. I highly recommend trying it out for a delicious and easy meal!
Techniques Required for Making Herb Baked Chicken Drumsticks
How to marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse into the chicken.
How to bake the chicken drumsticks: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Coat a sheet pan with cooking spray. Arrange the marinated chicken drumsticks in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
How to garnish with parsley: Once the chicken drumsticks are cooked, sprinkle them with freshly chopped parsley before serving. This adds a pop of color and a fresh herb flavor to the dish.
How To Make Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Garlic and Herbs
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3lbchicken drumsticks
- 1/2cupolive oil
- 1/4cuplemon juice
- 2tspgarlicminced
- 1tspsalt
- 1/2tsppepper
- 2tspItalian Seasoning
- 2tbspfresh parsleychopped
- Cooking spray
Instructions
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Place the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper and Italian seasoning in a large bowl. Whisk to combine.
-
Place the chicken drumsticks in the bowl and coat them in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours.
-
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Coat a sheet pan with cooking spray.
-
Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer on the sheet pan. Bake for 40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
-
Sprinkle with parsley, then serve.
Nutrition
- Calories: 557.74kcal
- Fat: 41.71g
- Saturated Fat: 8.26g
- Trans Fat: 0.11g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 23.33g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.14g
- Carbohydrates: 2.44g
- Fiber: 0.28g
- Sugar: 0.28g
- Protein: 41.20g
- Cholesterol: 208.65mg
- Sodium: 607.55mg
- Calcium: 29.97mg
- Potassium: 505.95mg
- Iron: 2.25mg
- Vitamin A: 37.78µg
- Vitamin C: 6.08mg
Helpful Technique for Making Herb Baked Chicken Drumsticks
To ensure your chicken drumsticks are thoroughly coated in the marinade, you can use a zip-top bag. Place the drumsticks and marinade in the bag, seal it, and then massage the bag to distribute the marinade evenly. This method also makes clean-up easier. For an even more intense flavor, try scoring the drumsticks with a sharp knife before marinating. This allows the marinade to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Herb Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken drumsticks the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a baking rack: Place the drumsticks on a baking rack to allow for even air circulation, resulting in quicker and more even cooking.
High heat: Increase the oven temperature to 425 degrees F for faster cooking, but be sure to monitor the drumsticks to prevent burning.
Sheet pan: Use a sheet pan with a non-stick surface or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Convection setting: If your oven has a convection setting, use it to reduce cooking time and achieve a crispy exterior.
Substitute Ingredients For Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Herbs Recipe
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in this recipe.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can provide the same tangy acidity as lemon juice, adding a bright flavor to the chicken drumsticks.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is not available, garlic powder can be used as a substitute to provide the same savory flavor.
Italian seasoning - Substitute with dried oregano, basil, and thyme: A combination of dried oregano, basil, and thyme can replicate the flavors of Italian seasoning, providing a similar herbaceous profile to the dish.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro can be used as a substitute for parsley, adding a vibrant and fresh herbal note to the baked chicken drumsticks.
Presentation Ideas for Herb Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate the plating: Arrange the herb baked chicken drumsticks in a circular pattern on a large white plate, creating a visually appealing display that showcases the golden brown color of the chicken.
Incorporate vibrant garnishes: Sprinkle a pinch of finely chopped fresh parsley over the chicken drumsticks to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
Enhance with a citrus twist: Place a few thin slices of lemon alongside the chicken drumsticks to infuse a hint of citrus aroma and provide a visually striking element to the presentation.
Utilize complementary side dishes: Serve the herb baked chicken drumsticks with a side of roasted vegetables and a drizzle of balsamic glaze to create a well-rounded and visually stunning plate.
Incorporate texture: Garnish the plate with a small handful of toasted almond slivers to add a delightful crunch and elevate the overall sensory experience of the dish.
Highlight the marinade: Drizzle a small amount of the remaining herb and lemon marinade over the chicken drumsticks, creating an enticing sheen and adding a burst of flavor to the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Baked Chicken Drumsticks
- Oven: An essential appliance for baking and roasting dishes, providing consistent and even heat distribution for cooking.
- Sheet pan: A versatile and essential kitchen tool for baking, roasting, and broiling, often used for cooking a variety of foods in the oven.
Storing and Freezing Herb Baked Chicken Drumsticks
- Let the chicken drumsticks cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To freeze the herb baked chicken drumsticks, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Frozen chicken drumsticks can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- To reheat, thaw the drumsticks in the refrigerator overnight. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the thawed drumsticks on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the skin is crispy.
- Tip: For even crispier skin, broil the reheated drumsticks for 2-3 minutes after baking, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
How To Reheat Leftover Chicken Drumsticks
Here are the best methods for reheating leftover herb baked chicken drumsticks:
Oven method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the leftover drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Loosely cover the chicken with another sheet of foil to prevent excessive browning. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating to crisp up the skin.
Microwave method: Place the drumsticks on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. This will help prevent the chicken from drying out. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Be aware that the skin will not be crispy with this method.
Air fryer method: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the leftover drumsticks in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method will help restore the crispiness of the skin.
Stovetop method: Place the drumsticks in a skillet or pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan to create steam and prevent the chicken from drying out. Cover the pan with a lid and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the lid for the last 2 minutes of reheating to crisp up the skin.
Regardless of the method you choose, always ensure that the internal temperature of the reheated herb baked chicken drumsticks reaches 165°F (74°C) to guarantee food safety. Enjoy your perfectly reheated, flavorful, and juicy drumsticks!
Interesting Fact About Herb Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Herb baked chicken drumsticks are a great source of protein and are low in fat. They are also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron and zinc.
Is This Chicken Drumstick Recipe Budget-Friendly?
The cost-effectiveness of this herb baked chicken drumsticks recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as chicken drumsticks, olive oil, and lemon juice, are commonly found in households, making it a budget-friendly option. The use of simple and affordable herbs and spices further adds to its cost-effectiveness. For a household of 4 people, the approximate cost would be around $10-$15, depending on the prices of the ingredients. Overall Verdict: 9/10. This recipe offers a delicious and economical way to prepare a flavorful chicken dish that is sure to satisfy the whole family.
Are Herb Baked Chicken Drumsticks Healthy?
This herb baked chicken drumsticks recipe is a relatively healthy choice, as it incorporates lean protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the olive oil. The use of fresh herbs and spices like garlic, parsley, and Italian seasoning adds flavor without relying on excessive salt or sugar. Additionally, baking the drumsticks instead of frying them reduces the overall fat content of the dish.
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the marinade to lower the overall calorie and fat content
- Use skinless chicken drumsticks to further reduce the fat content
- Increase the amount of fresh herbs and spices to boost the flavor without adding extra calories
- Serve the drumsticks with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to add more nutrients and fiber to the meal
To make this recipe even more nutritious, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap out half of the olive oil for low-fat yogurt or buttermilk to create a tangy, lower-calorie marinade
- Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra kick of flavor and a slight metabolism boost
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the drumsticks just before serving to brighten the flavors and add a dose of vitamin C
- Serve the drumsticks over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a complete, well-rounded meal that includes complex carbohydrates and additional protein
Editor's Opinion on This Herb Baked Chicken Recipe
The herb baked chicken drumsticks recipe is a delightful and flavorful dish. The marinade infuses the chicken with a perfect balance of citrusy and herby notes, resulting in tender and juicy drumsticks. The simplicity of the recipe makes it a convenient choice for any occasion, and the aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible. The addition of fresh parsley at the end adds a pop of color and a final touch of freshness. This dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and is perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests.
Why trust this Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Herbs Recipe:
This herb baked chicken drumsticks recipe is a trusty choice for any home cook. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and italian seasoning infuses the drumsticks with a burst of flavor. The marinating process ensures the chicken drumsticks are tender and juicy, while the baking method guarantees a crispy, golden exterior. The addition of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. With a simple yet flavorful approach, this recipe promises to deliver a delightful dining experience for all chicken lovers.
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