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Crispy Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken Drumsticks Recipe for Easy Roasted Corn Dinner

crispy sheet pan lemon herb chicken drumsticks - featured image

A quick and easy sheet pan recipe featuring crispy lemon-herb chicken drumsticks roasted alongside sweet corn, perfect for fuss-free weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds / 900 g), skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 ears of fresh corn, husked and cut into thirds (about 3 cups kernels)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice and zest from one lemon, minced garlic, fresh thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until blended.
  2. Add the chicken drumsticks and toss well to coat. Cover and let marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
  3. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  4. Husk the ears of corn and cut them into thirds or remove kernels if preferred. Place them in a small bowl, drizzle with melted butter, sprinkle with chili powder if using, and add a pinch of salt. Toss to coat evenly.
  5. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Place the marinated chicken drumsticks in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.
  6. Scatter the corn pieces or kernels around the chicken, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
  7. Roast in the oven for 35-40 minutes. About halfway through (18-20 minutes), check the corn and gently stir or flip it with tongs to ensure even roasting.
  8. Check that the chicken skin is golden and crisp and that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Remove the pan from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  10. Serve the drumsticks alongside the roasted corn, drizzling any pan juices over the top.

Notes

Pat drumsticks dry before marinating to ensure crispy skin. Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming. Broil for last 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness, watching closely to prevent burning. Fresh herbs preferred but dried can be used at one-third the amount. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat in oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken drumsticks, sheet pan dinner, lemon herb chicken, roasted corn, easy dinner, weeknight meal, crispy chicken, healthy chicken recipe