Juicy and golden-brown roasted marinated turkey drumsticks on a baking tray

Juicy Oven-Roasted Marinated Turkey Drumsticks

Name: Juicy Oven-Roasted Marinated Turkey Drumsticks
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pieces Turkey drumsticks (fresh or thawed); 3 tbsp Olive oil (extra virgin preferred); 3 pieces Garlic cloves (minced); 2 tbsp Lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tsp Dried rosemary; 1 tsp Dried thyme; 1 tsp Paprika (smoked or sweet); 1.5 tsp Salt; 0.5 tsp Black pepper (freshly ground)

Home Page / Delicious Roast Recipes / How to Roast a Turkey

easy

1 hour

Nutritional value per serving

Calories350kcal

Carbs2gram

Fat20gram

Protein30gram

Ingredients

Quantity

Turkey drumsticks (fresh or thawed)2 pieces
Olive oil (extra virgin preferred)3 tbsp
Garlic cloves (minced)3 pieces
Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)2 tbsp
Dried rosemary1 tsp
Dried thyme1 tsp
Paprika (smoked or sweet)1 tsp
Salt1.5 tsp
Black pepper (freshly ground)0.5 tsp

This recipe shows you how to prepare and roast flavorful turkey drumsticks that are marinated to perfection. The marinade tenderizes the meat and infuses it with delicious herbs and spices. Turkey drumsticks are an affordable and tasty cut that can easily feed a family or provide leftovers. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $12 (€11, £9, ₹900). Each drumstick contains about 350 calories, making it a satisfying and protein-rich main dish suitable for those following a balanced diet. The recipe is easy to moderate in complexity and will take about 1 hour and 45 minutes from start to finish, including marinating time. Food safety is emphasized, with clear internal temperature guidelines to ensure juicy and safe-to-eat poultry. Enjoy this practical, flavorful meal with confidence!

Preparation instructions

Prepare the marinade

1In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried rosemary, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until well blended. The marinade tenderizes the turkey and boosts flavor.

Marinate the turkey drumsticks

2Place the turkey drumsticks in a large resealable plastic bag or a deep container. Pour the marinade over the drumsticks. Seal the bag or cover the container and turn to coat the meat evenly. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour and up to 12 hours. For best flavor, marinate overnight.

Preheat the oven

3Remove the turkey from the refrigerator 20 minutes before cooking to allow it to come closer to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) to ensure even cooking.

Prepare baking tray and roast

4Line a baking tray with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top if available, then arrange the drumsticks on the rack, skin side up. This allows hot air to circulate and the skin to crisp nicely. Roast uncovered in the preheated oven.

Check internal temperature and cook time

5Roast the turkey for about 50 to 60 minutes. To ensure food safety, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the drumstick without touching the bone. The internal temperature must reach at least 74°C (165°F) to safely consume poultry. Once this temperature is reached, the turkey is safe and juicy.

Rest and serve

6Remove the drumsticks from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Let them rest for 10 minutes; this helps juices redistribute for a moist and tender bite. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Cooking Tips

1Avoid cross-contamination by always using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw turkey.

2Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels before marinating for better skin crispiness.

3If you don’t have a meat thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the drumstick; juices should run clear, and the meat should be opaque, but a thermometer is best for safety.

4Feel free to substitute dried herbs with fresh ones, doubling the quantity for more vibrant flavor.

5Leftover turkey drumsticks can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for 2 months.

Equipment needed

Mixing bowl
Whisk or fork
Resealable plastic bag or covered container for marinating
Baking tray
Aluminum foil or parchment paper
Wire rack (optional but recommended)
Meat thermometer
Oven

Grocery shopping list

[ ] Turkey drumsticks (2 pieces) - approx. $8 - Look for plump, skin-on drumsticks with no discoloration or unpleasant odor.
[ ] Olive oil (extra virgin) - approx. $0.50 for 3 tbsp - Choose a fresh bottle with a fruity aroma.
[ ] Garlic cloves (3 pieces) - approx. $0.30 - Firm and plump cloves indicate good quality.
[ ] Fresh lemon (1) - approx. $0.50 - Look for bright yellow, firm lemons without soft spots.
[ ] Dried rosemary (small jar) - approx. $1 - Choose a sealed jar away from sunlight for freshness.
[ ] Dried thyme (small jar) - approx. $1
[ ] Paprika (small jar) - approx. $1
[ ] Salt - pantry staple
[ ] Black pepper (ground or whole peppercorns to grind) - pantry staple

Total Estimated Cost: $12 (costs may vary by location)

FAQ

Can I marinate the turkey drumsticks longer than 12 hours?

Yes, you can marinate them overnight or up to 24 hours safely, but avoid much longer as the acid in the marinade can start to break down the meat excessively, affecting texture.

How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked without a thermometer?

Cut into the thickest part of the drumstick; the juices should run clear, and the meat should not be pink or translucent. However, a meat thermometer is the safest and most reliable method.