These Baked Lemon Garlic Chicken Drumsticks are juicy, flavorful, and infused with the zesty brightness of lemon and the savory depth of garlic. Baked to golden perfection, they make an easy and satisfying meal for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Packed with fresh, bold lemon and garlic flavor
Simple ingredients and minimal prep required
Baked, not fried — a healthier cooking method
Family-friendly and budget-conscious
Pairs well with a variety of sides

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken drumsticks
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Lemon juice
Lemon zest
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Dried oregano or thyme
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
Add drumsticks to the bowl and toss well to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes if time allows (optional).
Arrange the drumsticks on the wire rack, leaving space between each piece.
Bake for 35–45 minutes, turning once halfway through, until skin is golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Use chicken thighs or wings instead of drumsticks
Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
Swap lemon for lime for a slightly different citrus flavor
Add a touch of honey or Dijon mustard to the marinade for complexity
Grill instead of bake during warmer months

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheat in a 375°F oven until warmed through (about 10–15 minutes)
Avoid microwaving to maintain crispy skin
Can be frozen after baking; thaw in the fridge before reheating in oven

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time. Boneless pieces will cook faster and may dry out if overbaked.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best flavor, marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours. You can skip this step if you’re short on time.

Do I need a wire rack for baking?

It’s recommended to allow air circulation and crisper skin, but you can bake directly on foil or parchment if needed.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

What sides go well with lemon garlic chicken?

Rice, couscous, roasted vegetables, Greek salad, or mashed potatoes are excellent pairings.

How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Don’t overcook, and use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s done at 165°F without drying out.

Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Yes, cook at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it contains no flour or breading.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes. Marinate the chicken up to a day ahead and store covered in the fridge until ready to bake.

What can I do with leftovers?

Leftover chicken can be shredded into salads, wraps, or sandwiches for quick meals.

Conclusion

These Baked Lemon Garlic Chicken Drumsticks offer a vibrant, no-fuss dinner that delivers juicy meat and crispy skin in every bite. A versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meals. Ready for the next one?