Heart-Healthy Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your weeknight dinner with these Heart-Healthy Grilled Chicken Drumsticks, a delicious and nutritious option that’s perfect for the grill! Marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and fragrant herbs like rosemary and thyme, these drumsticks deliver big flavor while staying light on your heart. A pinch of paprika and onion powder adds a smoky, savory kick, making each bite irresistible. Grilled to perfection with a crispy exterior and juicy interior, they’re easy to prepare and cook in under 30 minutes after marinating. Pair these guilt-free drumsticks with a side of vibrant grilled vegetables or a refreshing leafy green salad for a wholesome meal that’s as satisfying as it is healthy. Perfect for summer BBQs or weeknight dinners, this recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking flavorful, heart-smart meals!
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Ingredients
- 8 pieces chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Directions
Step 1
Start by preparing the marinade. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, paprika, black pepper, salt, and onion powder. Stir until well mixed.
Step 2
Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a zip-lock bag. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Step 3
Preheat a grill to medium heat (about 350°F/175°C). If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are ashed over and evenly distributed.
Step 4
Remove the chicken drumsticks from the marinade and shake off any excess. Allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes while the grill heats up.
Step 5
Oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 6
Place the drumsticks on the grill. Cook for approximately 25-30 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking and to achieve a nice grill mark. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should be at least 165°F (74°C).
Step 7
Once cooked through, remove the drumsticks from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing the juices to redistribute.
Step 8
Serve the grilled chicken drumsticks with your choice of heart-healthy sides, such as grilled vegetables or a leafy green salad.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (878.8g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1668.4 |
| Total Fat 102.0g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 25.2g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g | |
| Cholesterol 744mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1746.3mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 9.5g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 2.1g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 1.0g | |
| Protein 179.0g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 128.8mg | 0% |
| Iron 8.7mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1947.0mg | 0% |
Source of Calories