Parmesan Garlic Roast Chicken Drumsticks
Herb-crusted chicken drumsticks roasted until golden, then finished with a garlicky Parmesan oil that clings to the crispy skin. Dried oregano, rosemary, and cumin form the base seasoning, while a fresh basil and garlic mixture adds brightness after cooking. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. This version skips heavy cream or butter for a lighter, oil-based finish that lets the herbs and cheese shine.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 ½ pounds chicken drumstickschicken thighs1:1darker meat
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- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- ½ teaspoon all-purpose seasoning salt
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 425°F.
- 2
Mix oregano, rosemary, cumin, and salt in a small bowl.
- 3
Arrange chicken drumsticks on a foil-lined baking sheet and season generously with the herb mixture.
- 4
Roast for 35-40 minutes until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 170°F.
- 5
While chicken roasts, whisk together olive oil, fresh basil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and seasoning salt.
- 6
Spoon the garlic-Parmesan mixture over the cooked chicken and serve immediately.
Tips
Pat drumsticks dry before seasoning to promote browning and crispier skin.
For extra herb flavor, reserve half the seasoning mixture and sprinkle over the finished dish.
Serve with lemon wedges to cut through the richness of the cheese and oil.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 325°F oven to avoid drying out.
Season and arrange chicken on the baking sheet up to 4 hours ahead. Prepare the garlic-Parmesan mixture up to 2 hours ahead; store separately.
Serve hot with roasted vegetables, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the garlic-oil drippings.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip patting chicken dry to avoid steaming instead of browning.
Don't add the garlic-Parmesan mixture before the chicken finishes cooking to avoid burnt garlic and separated oil.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make this on the stovetop instead of roasting?
Yes. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high, season drumsticks, and sear 4-5 minutes per side until golden. Cover and reduce heat to medium, cooking 20-25 minutes until internal temp reaches 170°F. Top with the garlic-Parmesan mixture at the end.
What if I don't have fresh basil?
Substitute 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried basil. You can also use fresh thyme or oregano for a different herb profile without adjusting quantities significantly.
How long can I keep leftovers and can I freeze them?
Refrigerate for 3 days. Freezing is not recommended due to the garlic-oil finish becoming rancid; freeze the cooked chicken plain and add fresh sauce after reheating.