Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken Drumsticks

Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken Drumsticks are a vibrant and juicy dinner option that’s bursting with bright citrus flavor and a peppery kick. This recipe takes simple chicken drumsticks and transforms them with a zesty blend of lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and freshly cracked black pepper, all roasted to golden perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, these drumsticks deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Plus, the olive oil and aromatic spices create a crisp skin that’s irresistible. Ready to make your dinner shine with just a few ingredients? Let’s dive in!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Just a handful of pantry staples and fresh lemon bring this dish to life.
• Bright, Tangy Flavor: The perfect balance of lemon zest and black pepper makes every bite pop.
• Juicy and Tender: Roasting locks in moisture so the chicken stays succulent.
• Quick and Easy: Prep in under 10 minutes, then let the oven do the work.
• Versatile Serving: Pair with rice, salad, or your favorite sides for a complete meal.
• Minimal Cleanup: One baking sheet is all you need.

Ingredient Checklist

• 8 chicken drumsticks (skin-on for crispiness)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for flavor)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest (about 1 medium lemon)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

What’s in the Gear List

• Baking sheet or roasting pan – for even roasting and crisp skin
• Mixing bowl – to combine the marinade ingredients
• Zester or microplane – to zest the lemon
• Measuring spoons – for precise seasoning
• Tongs – for turning the drumsticks
• Wire rack (optional) – to elevate the chicken for extra crispness

Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken Drumsticks Made Stepwise

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat ensures the chicken skin crisps up beautifully while the meat stays juicy inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Pepper Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk everything together until well blended. The fresh lemon zest and juice give the chicken an irresistible brightness that complements the bold pepper perfectly.

Step 3: Marinate the Drumsticks

Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until each piece is fully coated. For best results, let them sit for at least 15 minutes to soak in the flavors — or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours if you have time.

Step 4: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. If you have a wire rack, set it on the sheet and place the drumsticks on top to allow air circulation and crispier skin.

Step 5: Roast the Chicken

Put the baking sheet in the oven and roast the drumsticks for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through. The chicken is done when the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Make It Your Way

• Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky undertone.
• Swap fresh parsley for chopped cilantro or basil for a different herb twist.
• Drizzle with a little honey or maple syrup to balance the pepper with a hint of sweetness.
• Serve alongside Oven Baked Chicken And Rice for an easy, comforting meal.
• For a lighter option, remove the skin before marinating and roasting.
• Use the same seasoning blend on chicken wings or thighs for variety.

Don’t Do This

• Don’t skip the lemon zest — it’s the secret to that fresh, zesty flavor.
• Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; give the drumsticks space to roast evenly and crisp up.
• Don’t forget to flip the drumsticks halfway through roasting to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t undercook — always check the internal temperature to avoid dry or unsafe chicken.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

You can marinate the drumsticks in the lemon pepper mixture ahead of time, then freeze them in an airtight container or freezing bag for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and roast as directed. This makes dinner prep a breeze on busy nights!

Reader Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully with this lemon pepper seasoning. Just adjust the cooking time slightly — thighs may need a few extra minutes to cook through.

What if I don’t have fresh lemons?

Fresh lemon juice and zest really elevate the flavor here, but if you only have bottled lemon juice, it’s better than nothing. Just add a little extra zest if possible for a brighter punch.

How do I get the skin extra crispy?

Using a wire rack on your baking sheet helps air circulate around the chicken for crispier skin. Also, roasting at a higher temperature like 425°F and turning the drumsticks halfway through encourages that perfect golden crust.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses simple spices and fresh ingredients with no gluten-containing additives.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Try the Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders for a kid-friendly, crunchy alternative.
• Whip up a batch of Oven Baked Chicken And Rice for a comforting one-pan dinner.
• Explore flavorful roasted vegetable sides to serve alongside your chicken.
• Experiment with homemade dipping sauces like garlic aioli or honey mustard for extra flair.

Save & Share

If you loved making these Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken Drumsticks, be sure to save this recipe for later and share it with your friends and family. It’s a simple but stunning way to bring bold flavor to your dinner table any night of the week!

Ready to enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken with a zesty lemon and pepper punch? This Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken Drumsticks recipe is your new go-to for fuss-free, delicious meals that everyone will love.

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