Here’s a delicious and easy recipe for Roast Chicken Drumsticks and Thighs that’s perfect for a hearty, flavorful meal. This recipe focuses on crispy skin and juicy meat with a blend of simple herbs and seasonings.
Roast Chicken Drumsticks and Thighs
Ingredients:
- Chicken:
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 4 chicken thighs
- Marinade/Seasoning:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for added flavor)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for a kick)
- Optional Vegetables:
- 4 medium potatoes, cut into wedges
- 2 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, quartered
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil a roasting pan.
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks and thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and juice.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and massage it into the meat, making sure each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge for more flavor).
- Prepare Vegetables (Optional): If you’re roasting vegetables with the chicken, toss the potato wedges, carrots, and onion in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on the baking sheet around the chicken.
- Roast the Chicken: Arrange the chicken drumsticks and thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Place the vegetables around the chicken if using. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Baste: Halfway through cooking, you can baste the chicken with the juices from the pan for extra moisture and flavor.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy your roast chicken with the crispy skin and juicy meat, along with the roasted vegetables if included.
This Roast Chicken Drumsticks and Thighs recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or Sunday lunch!
