Garlic Herb Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Garlic Herb Baked Chicken Drumsticks offer a simple yet incredibly flavorful way to enjoy chicken. Marinated in a fragrant blend of herbs, garlic, and olive oil, these drumsticks are baked to golden perfection—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s budget-friendly, perfect for meal prepping, and made with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or weekday lunches, these drumsticks are both versatile and satisfying.

ingredients

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

Chicken drumsticks
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Fresh or dried rosemary
Fresh or dried thyme
Parsley
Onion, finely chopped
Salt
Black pepper
Lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped onion, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss until fully coated in the marinade.
Arrange the drumsticks on a lined baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake for 35–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is golden and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Optionally, drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with more fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add chili flakes, cayenne, or hot sauce to the marinade.
Smoky flavor: Use smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke.
Herb substitution: Use Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence.
Crispy skin hack: Broil for the last 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.
Use other cuts: This marinade also works well with thighs or wings.

storage/reheating

Store cooled drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave, though the skin may lose its crispiness. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and reheat from frozen.

FAQs

Can I marinate the drumsticks overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight enhances the flavor significantly.

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, though cooking time will be shorter and the texture will differ.

Do I need to remove the skin?

No, the skin helps lock in moisture and adds crispiness.

How do I make sure the chicken doesn’t dry out?

Avoid overbaking; use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Can I grill these instead of baking?

Absolutely, just grill over medium heat for 25–30 minutes, turning occasionally.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad complement it well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, marinate and store in the fridge until ready to bake.

How do I get a deeper herb flavor?

Use fresh herbs and allow longer marination time.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as no gluten-containing condiments or seasonings are added.

What can I do with leftovers?

Shred the meat and add to salads, sandwiches, or soups.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Baked Chicken Drumsticks are an effortless yet crowd-pleasing meal. They’re full of rustic flavor, crisped to perfection, and versatile enough to suit a wide range of palates. Whether you’re preparing for a weekday dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, this recipe ensures a delicious outcome every time.