There’s something incredibly satisfying about crispy, golden-baked chicken drumsticks—especially when they’re infused with garlic, lemon, and Dijon.
These Garlic Dijon Chicken Drumsticks are bold, juicy, and easy to make with just one simple marinade.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a casual family gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Big flavor, little effort – The marinade does all the work.
Crispy skin in the oven – No frying, no mess.
Bright and garlicky – Lemon juice and Dijon bring zing and depth.
Make-ahead friendly – Marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
Crowd-pleaser – Loved by kids and adults alike.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Chicken drumsticks – Juicy, budget-friendly, and easy to bake.
Olive oil – Helps crisp the skin and carry flavor.
Fresh garlic & parsley – Bring bold, aromatic freshness.
Dijon mustard – Adds sharpness and richness to the marinade.
Lemon juice – Brightens the dish with natural acidity.
Salt & black pepper – Keep it simple and well-balanced.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Marinate overnight for best results—flavor penetrates deeper.
Push marinade under the skin for extra richness.
Bring to room temp before baking for even cooking.
Flip halfway through baking for crispy skin on both sides.
Broil briefly for that irresistible golden finish.
How to Make Garlic Dijon Chicken Drumsticks
Step 1: Make the Marinade
Whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, Dijon, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Coat drumsticks evenly with marinade, including under the skin.
Cover and refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight.
Step 3: Prep the Oven
Preheat to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil or a silicone mat.
Step 4: Bake Skin-Side Down
Arrange chicken skin-side-down and bake for 25 minutes.
Step 5: Flip and Bake
Turn chicken over and bake for another 25 minutes.
Step 6: Broil for Crispiness
Optional: Broil 2–3 minutes until the skin is browned and crispy.
What to Serve It With
Roasted baby potatoes or mashed cauliflower
Steamed green beans or sautéed kale
Rice pilaf or couscous with herbs
A fresh cucumber-tomato salad
Creamy garlic yogurt dip or spicy aioli
Variations / Substitutions
Use chicken thighs or wings instead of drumsticks.
Swap Dijon for whole grain mustard for texture.
Add chili flakes for a spicier kick.
Use lime juice in place of lemon for a twist.
Mix in a bit of honey for a sweet-savory balance.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer – Freeze cooked drumsticks for up to 2 months.
Reheat – Warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or air fry for extra crispiness.
Great cold too – Use leftovers in wraps or salads.
FAQs
Can I grill these instead of baking?
Yes! Grill over medium heat, turning often, until cooked through and crispy.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
You can substitute with yellow mustard or whole grain for a similar effect.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 6 hours, but overnight gives the best flavor.
Can I bake them without broiling?
Absolutely—they’ll still be delicious, just slightly less crisp on top.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! It’s flavorful without being spicy.
How do I check if the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use two baking sheets and rotate halfway through baking.
Final Thoughts
These Garlic Dijon Chicken Drumsticks are the kind of no-fuss, high-reward dish I always go back to.
The marinade is bold and bright, the skin roasts up perfectly golden, and the meat stays tender and juicy.
Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, this is a recipe you’ll want to keep in rotation.
