Elevate your weeknight dinners with these Low Fat Perfectly Roasted Chicken Drumsticks—an easy, guilt-free recipe that combines crispy, golden-brown skin with a juicy interior, all achieved without heavy oils or frying. Packed with the zesty brightness of lemon, aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary, and a smoky kick of paprika, these drumsticks are marinated to maximize flavor while staying under 10 minutes of prep time. Baked in the oven at the perfect temperature for a healthier alternative to frying, this recipe ensures even cooking and a deliciously crisp texture. Perfect for meal prepping, family dinners, or even casual entertaining, these roasted drumsticks are best served with a side of fresh veggies, a simple salad, or warm grains. Plus, with their low-fat profile and quick 45-minute cook time, they’re bound to become a weekly favorite.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, black pepper, and the zest and juice of the lemon. Mix well to form a marinade.
Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss them well in the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
Place the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer and ensuring they do not touch.
Roast the drumsticks in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, flip the drumsticks over using tongs to ensure even cooking.
Continue roasting for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the drumsticks have a golden, crispy skin and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute inside the meat.
Serve the roasted drumsticks hot, garnished with additional lemon wedges or fresh herbs, if desired.
Calories |
1678 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 102.3 g | 131% | |
| Saturated Fat | 25.2 g | 126% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 744 mg | 248% | |
| Sodium | 2928 mg | 127% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 13.2 g | 5% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.0 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.1 g | ||
| Protein | 179.6 g | 359% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 136 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 9.0 mg | 50% | |
| Potassium | 2002 mg | 43% | |
*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.