Transform your weeknight dinners with this irresistible Dairy-Free Oven-Baked Drumstick Chicken recipe, perfect for those seeking a flavorful yet allergen-friendly dish. Bathed in a vibrant marinade of olive oil, smoky paprika, garlic powder, and a fragrant blend of dried herbs, these juicy drumsticks deliver bold, zesty flavors with a citrusy punch of freshly grated lemon zest. Oven-baked to perfection, the chicken achieves a beautifully crisp skin without the need for deep frying, making it a healthier choice for family meals or entertaining guests. Ready in just an hour, this easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for busy cooks and pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or fluffy rice. Whether you're dairy-free or simply craving a hearty, flavorful chicken dish, these drumsticks will be a crowd-pleaser you’ll return to again and again!
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning adheres well and the skin crisps up.
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to form a marinade.
Grate the zest of the lemon into the marinade for added citrus flavor.
Place the drumsticks in a large bowl or a ziplock bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 10 minutes or up to an hour in the refrigerator.
Transfer the drumsticks to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, then increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This step helps to crisp up the skin.
Check the internal temperature of the drumsticks using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
Once done, remove from the oven and let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes.
Squeeze the juice of the zested lemon over the drumsticks and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Calories |
1812 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 116.7 g | 150% | |
| Saturated Fat | 27.5 g | 138% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 744 mg | 248% | |
| Sodium | 2935 mg | 128% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 14.4 g | 5% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.0 g | 18% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.1 g | ||
| Protein | 180.1 g | 360% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 162 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 10.3 mg | 57% | |
| Potassium | 2114 mg | 45% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.