Let me tell you, Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks are an absolute game changer! They’re not just flavorful; they’re incredibly easy to whip up, even on a busy weeknight. I remember the first time I made them; my family couldn’t stop raving about how juicy and zesty they were. The combination of lemon and pepper gives the chicken such a bright, refreshing taste that makes every bite feel like a little celebration. Plus, they bake up beautifully in the oven while you can prep your sides. Trust me, this dish has quickly become one of my all-time favorites, and I know it will be yours too!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks. Make sure you have everything ready before you start!

8 chicken drumsticks: The star of the show! Look for fresh, meaty drumsticks for the best flavor.
2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps to keep the chicken moist and adds a lovely richness.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best for that zesty kick, but bottled works in a pinch!
1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning: This blend is what brings the vibrant flavor to life. You can find it at most grocery stores.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must for that savory depth; it complements the lemon perfectly.
Salt to taste: Don’t forget this! It enhances all the flavors.
Black pepper to taste: For an extra pop of spice; adjust according to your preference.

How to Prepare Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks

Now, let’s dive into the steps for making these scrumptious Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up this dish.

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is crucial so your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color.
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well blended. The aroma is already fantastic!
Coat the chicken drumsticks with the marinade. I like to use my hands here (just make sure to wash them afterward!) to really ensure each piece is covered in that zesty goodness.
Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they’re not crowded; this helps them roast beautifully.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy. You’ll know they’re done when the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Once they’re done, let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This lets the juices redistribute, making each bite even more delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour!
Flavor explosion: The bright lemon and zesty pepper create a mouthwatering combination that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Healthy option: Baked instead of fried, these drumsticks are a lighter choice without sacrificing taste.
Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep—pair them with your favorite sides!
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the juicy, flavorful chicken; it’s a surefire hit at the dinner table!

Tips for Success

To make sure your Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks turn out perfectly, here are a few of my favorite tips! First, don’t skip the marinating step—letting the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) amplifies the flavors. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; you want it to reach 165°F (74°C) for safety and juiciness. Be careful not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can steam the chicken instead of allowing it to crisp up. And remember, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, just before serving adds a lovely color and fresh taste!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for each Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumstick. Each serving contains about 250 calories, 15g of fat, and 25g of protein. Of course, these values can vary based on cooking methods and ingredient brands, so keep that in mind when you dig in!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you have any leftovers (which I doubt, but just in case!), let the drumsticks cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for that crispy skin, about 10-15 minutes. Yum!

FAQ Section

Can I use other cuts of chicken? Absolutely! You can use thighs or wings if you prefer; just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different cuts may take longer or shorter to cook.

What can I serve with Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks? These drumsticks pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. You can even toss them into wraps for a fun twist!

Can I marinate the chicken overnight? Yes, marinating overnight is a fantastic idea! It allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, making the chicken even more delicious.

How do I know when they’re fully cooked? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.

Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the cooked drumsticks! Just make sure they’re cooled and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks: 5 Reasons to Love Them

Author: CakesLouna
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks are flavorful and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

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.

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

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