Treat your taste buds to a guilt-free indulgence with these Heart-Healthy Baked Chicken Drumsticks, a simple yet flavorful recipe designed with your well-being in mind. Featuring tender chicken drumsticks coated in a vibrant blend of olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and fragrant herbs like thyme and rosemary, this oven-baked dish is low in saturated fats and high in savory satisfaction. A spritz of fresh lemon juice adds a zesty brightness, while baking ensures crispy, golden skin without the need for frying. Ready in under an hour, these drumsticks are perfect for a wholesome family dinner or easy meal prep. Pair them with steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a nutritious, balanced meal that's as heart-smart as it is delicious.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with a bit of olive oil.
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl. Pour the olive oil and spice mixture over the drumsticks and toss them well to ensure they're evenly coated.
Arrange the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other to ensure even cooking.
Slice the lemon in half and squeeze the juice over the chicken drumsticks. Place the lemon halves on the baking sheet as well.
Bake the drumsticks in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach at least 165°F (75°C).
Remove the baked chicken drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serve the drumsticks hot, garnished with fresh lemon slices and your favorite heart-healthy side dishes, such as steamed vegetables or a green salad.
Calories |
1676 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 102.3 g | 131% | |
| Saturated Fat | 25.2 g | 126% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 744 mg | 248% | |
| Sodium | 1748 mg | 76% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 12.4 g | 5% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.9 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.8 g | ||
| Protein | 179.5 g | 359% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 136 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 9.1 mg | 51% | |
| Potassium | 1990 mg | 42% | |
*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.