Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks! They’re one of my absolute favorite go-to meals when I want something that’s bursting with flavor but still super easy to whip up. I remember the first time I made them for a casual dinner with friends; the aroma of lemon and spices wafting through the kitchen had everyone drooling before they even hit the table! The zesty lemon pepper seasoning combined with tender chicken creates a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your weeknight rotation!
Ingredients List
To make these delicious Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 chicken drumsticks: The star of the show! Choose fresh, plump drumsticks for the juiciest results.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps the seasoning stick and adds richness to the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best for that bright, zesty flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning: A must-have for that signature lemony kick with a hint of spice.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth and a savory note that complements the lemon perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors. Adjust according to your preference!
How to Prepare Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks
Getting these Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks ready is a breeze, and I promise you’ll be enjoying them in no time! The whole process takes about 50 minutes, with just 10 minutes of prep and 40 minutes of baking. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is crucial for that perfect crispy skin!
- While the oven heats up, grab a bowl and mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This marinade is where all the flavor magic happens!
- Now, coat each chicken drumstick thoroughly with the marinade. Make sure every inch is covered in that zesty goodness.
- Next, place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a snap!
- Now, pop those beauties into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Once they’re out of the oven, let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy and delicious!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks turn out absolutely perfect, here are a few tips I swear by! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to match your taste. If you love a little more zing, add extra lemon juice or lemon pepper seasoning. Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) will really intensify those flavors, so plan ahead if you can! When baking, keep an eye on the chicken during the last few minutes—oven temperatures can vary! And remember, letting the drumsticks rest after baking is crucial for juicy, tender meat. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information Section
When it comes to enjoying these Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks, it’s good to keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I can share an estimate, remember this is just a guideline! For each drumstick, you’re looking at approximately 250 calories, with 15g of fat, 25g of protein, and no carbs. Always check your ingredients for the most accurate nutritional information, especially if you’re keeping an eye on your diet!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can have these delicious Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks on the table in just 50 minutes!
- Flavorful: The zesty lemon pepper seasoning makes every bite burst with flavor.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and gluten-free, they’re a guilt-free indulgence!
- Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep.
- Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love the juicy, tender chicken!
Serving Suggestions
These Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks are so versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides to create a complete meal! I love serving them alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli and carrots, which complement the zesty flavors beautifully. You could also whip up some fluffy rice or a light salad for a refreshing touch. For an extra indulgent twist, mashed potatoes make a fantastic pairing too! Whatever you choose, you can’t go wrong with these delicious drumsticks!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them up! When it’s time to enjoy them again, I recommend reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This helps restore that crispy skin and juicy texture. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook them—nobody wants rubbery chicken!
FAQ Section
Got questions about these Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks? I’ve got you covered!
Can I use other cuts of chicken? Absolutely! Thighs or breasts work well too, just adjust the cooking time as needed.
What if I don’t have lemon pepper seasoning? No worries! You can make your own by mixing equal parts lemon zest and black pepper with a pinch of salt.
Can I grill these instead of baking? Yes! Just marinate as usual and grill over medium heat for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally.
How can I make these spicier? Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick!
For more delicious chicken recipes, check out Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers or Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken.
Print
Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks: 5 Ways to Amaze Your Tastebuds
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks are flavorful and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the chicken drumsticks with the marinade.
- Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
- Serve with a side of vegetables or rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drumstick
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks, baked chicken, easy chicken recipe