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Lemon Pepper Chicken Drumsticks

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These easy baked lemon pepper chicken drumsticks are crispy, juicy, and bursting with zesty lemon and bold black pepper flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re the perfect snack, appetizer, or quick main dish for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs (about 8–10 pieces) chicken drumsticks, skin-on
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 large lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. If you have a wire rack, place it over the baking sheet.
  2. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
  3. In a large bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, olive oil, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix well.
  4. Add the drumsticks to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
  5. Optional: Let the coated drumsticks rest for 10-15 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to soak in.
  6. Arrange the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet or rack, leaving space between each piece.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the skin is golden and crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired.

Notes

For extra crispy skin, broil the drumsticks for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning. Marinating for 10-15 minutes enhances flavor, but you can skip if short on time. Use freshly grated lemon zest and coarsely crushed black pepper for the best flavor. Drumsticks are best served hot but are also great at room temperature for picnics or meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon pepper chicken, baked drumsticks, easy chicken recipe, gluten-free, kid-friendly, quick snack, oven baked chicken, crispy chicken, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/lemon-pepper-chicken-drumsticks-recipe-easy-baked-snack-in-30-minutes/