Keto Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Drumsticks
(Easy One-Pan Crispy Skin Chicken)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
Total Time: 45-55 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Calories: 385 per serving
Fat: 28g
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 2g net
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary: Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free
Equipment Needed:
- Large baking dish or sheet pan
- Mixing bowl (or zip-top bag)
- Measuring spoons
- Lemon zester
- Meat thermometer
- Alternative: Use foil-lined baking sheet if no suitable dish available
Ingredients:
- 8-10 chicken drumsticks (approximately 2 lbs/900g)
- ¼ cup (60ml) olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons (30g) ghee or butter, melted
- 4-6 garlic cloves, minced (or 2 tbsp pre-minced)
- 2 lemons (zest and juice)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Method:
- Remove chicken from fridge 30 minutes before starting
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
- Combine oil, melted ghee, minced garlic, lemon zest, juice, and all seasonings in mixing bowl
- Add drumsticks and coat thoroughly
- Arrange pieces in single layer, leaving space between each
- Bake for 35-45 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
- Optional: Broil 2-3 minutes for extra crispy skin
- Rest 5 minutes before serving
Crucial Tips:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – chicken needs space to crisp
- Pat drumsticks dry before seasoning
- For super crispy skin, leave uncovered in fridge for 2 hours before cooking
- Always check internal temperature at thickest part
Storage & Scaling:
- Keeps 3 days refrigerated
- Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes
- Recipe doubles easily – use two pans, don’t overcrowd
Common Mistakes:
- Overcrowding the pan
- Not patting chicken dry
- Skipping the resting period
- Using cold chicken straight from fridge
Variations:
- Swap lemon for orange
- Add red pepper flakes for heat
- Use dried herbs (rosemary, thyme) for different flavor profiles
- Air fryer version: 380°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway
