Savor the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this 'Mediterranean Diet Perfectly Roasted Chicken Drumsticks' recipe. These juicy and golden-brown drumsticks are marinated in a blend of heart-healthy olive oil, zesty lemon juice, fragrant garlic, and Mediterranean herbs like oregano and thyme, creating an irresistible depth of flavor. Paprika adds a subtle smoky note, while lemon zest brightens every bite. Roasted to perfection, these drumsticks are both crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a surefire crowd-pleaser. Ready in just an hour and topped with fresh parsley, they pair beautifully with Greek salads or roasted vegetables for a wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, this recipe is your go-to for easy, nutritious comfort food.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest. Mix well to form a marinade.
Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl with the marinade. Toss to coat the drumsticks thoroughly, ensuring they are evenly covered with the mixture.
Transfer the marinated drumsticks to the prepared baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer with a little space between each one for even cooking.
Roast the drumsticks in the preheated oven for approximately 40-45 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking to promote even browning. The chicken should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C).
Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy chicken.
Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the roasted drumsticks before serving. Serve hot with your choice of Mediterranean sides, such as a fresh Greek salad or roasted vegetables.
Calories |
1795 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 116.3 g | 149% | |
| Saturated Fat | 27.4 g | 137% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 744 mg | 248% | |
| Sodium | 2930 mg | 127% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 9.9 g | 4% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.0 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.2 g | ||
| Protein | 179.2 g | 358% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 167 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 9.9 mg | 55% | |
| Potassium | 2022 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.