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Lemon Pepper Drumsticks Recipe: Weeknight Gold
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Lemon Pepper Drumsticks Recipe: Weeknight Gold

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 281kcal

Ingredients

  • 8 chicken drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on for max flavor)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika (smoked if you’ve got it)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Yes, we’re roasting, not boiling drama.
  • Pat drumsticks dry with paper towels. Dry skin = crisp skin, which is basically edible gold.
  • Toss drumsticks with olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and all the spices. Coat evenly—no drumstick left behind.
  • Arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Give each piece space to breathe—crowded drumsticks = soggy drama.
  • Bake 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. If you like extra crisp, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end. Watch them like a hawk at a gullible picnic.
  • Check for a juicy, fully cooked center (165°F / 74°C). Rest for a few minutes, then serve hot and confident.