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crispy mediterranean lemon-herb roasted chicken legs recipe - Crispy Mediterranean Lemon-Herb Roasted Chicken Legs served in a white bowl overhead view
Chloe

Crispy Mediterranean Lemon-Herb Roasted Chicken Legs

crispy mediterranean lemon-herb roasted chicken legs recipe made easy at home. Oven-roasted to crispy perfection with bright lemon and fragrant herbs, these c
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 8 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks about 2 lbs, patted dry
For the Herb Marinade
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice from 2 lemons
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position a rack in the middle.
  2. Pat the chicken drumsticks completely dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key for crispy skin.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss well until every piece is evenly coated. If time allows, cover and marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes (or refrigerate up to 24 hours for deeper flavor).
  5. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Place the drumsticks skin side up, spacing them evenly so they aren't touching.
  6. Roast in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crisp. For an extra-crisp finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
  7. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest on the sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with fresh lemon wedges and extra herbs, and serve hot.