Zesty Lemon Broiled Chicken Drumsticks
Nutritional value per serving
Calories350kcal
Carbs5gram
Fat18gram
Protein28gram
Ingredients
- chicken drumsticks (skin-on, bone-in, fresh - choose plump and firm drumsticks)6 pieces
- lemon (fresh, juicy, preferably organic for zest and juice)1 piece
- olive oil (extra virgin for better flavor)2 tbsp
- garlic (fresh, peeled, finely minced)2 cloves
- salt (fine sea salt recommended)1 tsp
- black pepper (freshly ground if possible)0.5 tsp
- dried oregano (or substitute with Italian seasoning)1 tsp
- fresh parsley (optional, finely chopped for garnish)1 tbsp
This recipe for lemon broiled chicken drumsticks offers a simple, flavorful, and efficient way to prepare juicy chicken with a tangy citrus twist. The chicken is marinated briefly, then broiled to golden perfection, creating a crisp exterior and tender interior. Total ingredient cost is approximately $8.00 (around €7.50, £6.50, ₹650), making it affordable for a family meal. Each serving has about 350 kcal, fitting into a balanced diet. The recipe is easy in difficulty and takes just about 40 minutes including preparation and cooking. Ensuring food safety, the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) as verified with a meat thermometer, guaranteeing it's fully cooked and safe to eat. This recipe is perfect for home cooks seeking quick, delicious meals using common ingredients.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the marinade
1Grate the zest of the lemon and then squeeze the juice into a bowl. Add olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Mix well to combine all the flavors. This marinade will infuse the chicken with fresh lemony flavor and herbs.
Marinate the chicken
2Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl or zip-lock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and ensure all pieces are coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes up to 2 hours. Marinating helps tenderize and flavor the chicken.
Preheat the broiler
3Set your oven rack about 15 cm (6 inches) from the broiler element. Preheat your broiler on high. Line a baking tray with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and set a wire rack over the tray to allow air circulation around the chicken for even cooking.
Arrange chicken for broiling
4Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Place drumsticks on the wire rack in a single layer, leaving space between pieces for heat circulation. This arrangement helps the skin crisp nicely without steaming.
Broil the chicken
5Broil the chicken drumsticks for about 10 minutes on one side. Then, carefully flip each drumstick and broil for another 10-12 minutes on the other side. Cooking times may vary; check the chicken regularly to prevent burning. This direct heat cooks the chicken quickly and crisps the skin.
Check internal temperature for doneness
6Using a meat thermometer, check the thickest part of a drumstick without touching the bone. The internal temperature must reach at least 74°C (165°F) to guarantee food safety. If below temperature, continue broiling, checking every 2 minutes.
Rest and serve
7Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Resting ensures juicy, tender meat and enhances flavor.
Cooking Tips
1Use a meat thermometer to reliably check the internal temperature for safety and perfect doneness.
2Avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils and plates for raw and cooked chicken.
3If you don't have a wire rack, place the chicken directly on foil-lined tray, but flip often for even crisping.
4For a spicier twist, add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade.
5Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat thoroughly before eating.
Equipment Needed
- Oven with broiler
- Baking tray
- Aluminum foil
- Wire rack (optional but recommended)
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing bowl
- Zester or grater
- Knife and cutting board
- Tongs
Shopping List
- [ ] Chicken drumsticks (6 pieces) - approximately $5.00. Choose fresh drumsticks that are firm with pink skin.
- [ ] Lemon (1 piece) - approximately $0.50. Pick a heavy, fragrant lemon with bright yellow skin.
- [ ] Olive oil (small bottle if not at home) - approximately $3.00. Use extra virgin for best taste.
- [ ] Fresh garlic (1 bulb) - approximately $0.30. Look for firm cloves without spots.
- [ ] Salt (packet) - approximately $1.00. Fine sea salt is preferred.
- [ ] Black pepper (small jar) - approximately $2.00. Freshly ground is best.
- [ ] Dried oregano (jar) - approximately $1.50. Italian seasoning can be used as a substitute.
- [ ] Fresh parsley (optional, 1 bunch) - approximately $1.00. Choose bright green leaves without wilt.
Total approximate cost: $14.30. Prices vary by region; many of these ingredients are pantry staples for repeated use.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used and will also broil nicely. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).
What if I don’t have a broiler?
You can bake the chicken drumsticks at 220°C (425°F) for about 25-30 minutes until they reach the safe internal temperature.
How do I know when the chicken is safe to eat?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature in the thickest part reaches at least 74°C (165°F).
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight in the fridge will intensify the flavor, but be sure not to exceed 24 hours to maintain texture.
How do I avoid dry chicken?
Avoid overcooking, monitor the temperature, and let the chicken rest before serving to keep it juicy.