If you’re craving a delicious, easy-to-make dinner that’s full of flavor, then these Lemon Parmesan Roasted Chicken Drumsticks are exactly what you need.
These drumsticks are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with the fresh flavors of lemon and Parmesan. Perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend meal, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Let’s get started and make this mouthwatering dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Crispy and juicy chicken drumsticks with minimal effort
- Perfectly seasoned with fresh lemon and rich Parmesan
- Family-friendly and great for meal prep or leftovers
- Minimal cleanup—all you need is one baking sheet!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These drumsticks are made with a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Chicken Drumsticks: 8 pieces, skin-on for the best crispiness
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for maximum flavor
- Lemon: Zested and juiced for that tangy, bright flavor
- Garlic: Minced, for that aromatic base
- Olive Oil: For drizzling and ensuring the drumsticks are perfectly crispy
- Dried Herbs: Thyme and oregano are perfect with chicken, but feel free to use what you have
- Salt and Pepper: To season and bring out all the flavors
- Fresh Parsley: For garnish and a burst of color at the end
How to Make Lemon Parmesan Roasted Chicken Drumsticks (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to make your drumsticks perfectly crispy and flavorful:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps the skin get nice and crispy.
Prepare the Drumsticks:
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This is key for achieving that crispy skin!
Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Drizzle the seasoning mixture over the drumsticks, making sure they are all well-coated.
Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each drumstick. The cheese will melt and form a beautiful, golden crust.
Roast the Drumsticks:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the drumsticks for 35–40 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through.
Finish and Serve:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a burst of freshness.
Serve with your favorite side dishes, like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Parmesan Roasted Chicken Drumsticks
- Crispy Skin: Make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning to help the skin get extra crispy.
- Fresh Parmesan: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated cheese won’t melt as smoothly.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Arrange the drumsticks on the baking sheet with enough space between them for the hot air to circulate and crisp up the chicken.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little spice with your chicken!
What to Serve with Lemon Parmesan Roasted Chicken Drumsticks
This dish is delicious on its own, but here are some great side ideas to complete your meal:
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, and potatoes all pair wonderfully with the lemon and Parmesan flavor.
- Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy garlic bread makes the perfect accompaniment.
- Crisp Salad: A light, fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve your chicken drumsticks over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a filling meal.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use chicken thighs or breasts instead of drumsticks?
Yes, you can! Just adjust the cooking time. Chicken thighs will take a bit longer, and breasts will cook a little quicker.
Can I make this ahead of time?
These drumsticks are best served fresh, but you can prep the seasoning and store the drumsticks in the fridge for up to 2 hours before roasting.
Can I freeze leftover drumsticks?
Yes! Let the drumsticks cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to keep the skin crispy.
Lemon Parmesan Roasted Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients
For the drumsticks:
- 8 chicken drumsticks, skin-on
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Chicken:Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Coat well.
- Add Parmesan:Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over each drumstick, ensuring a nice even coat.
- Roast the Drumsticks:Place the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown.
- Serve:Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
