Garlic Roasted Chicken Drumsticks

Name: Garlic Roasted Chicken Drumsticks
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 chicken drumsticks; 1/4 cup olive oil; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Comfort Classics Reimagined

I absolutely love making Garlic Roasted Chicken Drumsticks for a quick and satisfying dinner. The delicate balance of garlic and herbs creates an irresistible aroma while roasting in the oven. What I enjoy most is how simple the recipe is, yet the flavor is truly gourmet. It’s one of those meals that seems fancy, but it requires minimal prep time and ingredients. Nothing beats the crispy skin paired with tender meat. Even those who claim they don’t like chicken are usually delighted by these drumsticks!

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:24:38.245Z

When I first tried baking chicken drumsticks, I was pleasantly surprised by how tender and flavorful they could be! After experimenting with different marinades, I found that a simple mixture of garlic, olive oil, and herbs really brought out the best in the meat. Not only did this combination enhance the taste, but it also caramelized beautifully in the oven.

One key tip I've learned is to let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in succulent bites. I've paired them with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal that feels hearty yet healthy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The rich garlic flavor perfectly complements the chicken's natural juices.
Crispy skin that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat inside.
A foolproof recipe that requires just a few ingredients.

Perfecting the Marinade

The marinade plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavor of the chicken. Olive oil not only adds richness but also helps to keep the drumsticks moist during cooking, while the minced garlic infuses the meat with its robust flavors. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme contribute earthy notes that make this dish feel gourmet. If you prefer, you can substitute dried herbs, but fresh ones offer a vibrancy that enhances the overall taste profile.

Letting the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes is essential. However, for the best results, consider marinating overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and succulent outcome. Make sure to rotate the drumsticks occasionally in the marinade if you’re using a shorter marinating time, to ensure even coating and flavor distribution.

Roasting Technique

When roasting the drumsticks, it's important to preheat your oven thoroughly to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is vital for achieving that desired crispy skin. A hot oven quickly renders the fat and crisps the skin while allowing the inside to cook evenly without drying out. Consider placing the baking sheet in the middle rack to leverage the even heat distribution of the oven.

Check for doneness using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the drumstick, avoiding the bone. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Look for the skin to be golden brown and slightly crispy, which indicates that they are perfectly roasted. If you find the skin isn’t as crisp as you’d like, you can broil the drumsticks for the last few minutes but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make the most delicious garlic roasted chicken drumsticks:

Ingredients

8 chicken drumsticks
1/4 cup olive oil
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a mouthwatering dish!

Instructions

Let’s walk through the easy steps to make these flavorful drumsticks:

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for more flavor.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Arrange Drumsticks

Place the marinated drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are spaced out evenly.

Roast

Roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite sides!

Your delicious garlic roasted chicken drumsticks are now ready to impress!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding some lemon zest to the marinade. This will give the chicken a bright and refreshing note.

Serving Suggestions

These Garlic Roasted Chicken Drumsticks pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with a light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to complement the garlic flavors. Roasted vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, also make a great accompaniment. For a heartier side, creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy couscous will round out the meal, allowing the delicious drippings to be soaked up.

For a fun twist, shred the leftover chicken and toss it into a wrap with fresh greens, diced tomatoes, and a creamy dressing. This makes for a fantastic lunch option the next day and keeps the flavors exciting. If you have extra marinade left, consider using it as a dipping sauce to enhance the flavors even more.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover drumsticks, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the crispy texture of the skin compared to microwaving, which can make it soggy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the marinated drumsticks before cooking. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible, and they will keep well for up to three months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking and to keep them juicy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly with this marinade and will still be juicy and flavorful!

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I grill these drumsticks instead of roasting?

Absolutely! Preheat your grill and cook the drumsticks over medium heat until cooked through.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

These drumsticks go wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.