Craving a comforting, flavour-packed dinner that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle? These Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Garlic Herb Butter are the answer. Juicy, golden-skinned drumsticks are oven-roasted to perfection, then finished with a luscious garlic and herb butter that infuses every bite with rich, savoury goodness.
Chicken drumsticks are naturally high in protein and healthy fats, making them ideal for keto. Baking them in the oven keeps things simple and hands-off, while the garlic herb butter elevates the flavour without adding carbs. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, as it requires minimal ingredients and effort.
Simply season the drumsticks, bake until crisp and golden, then toss with the melted butter mixture. Serve with your favourite low-carb sides for a satisfying, family-friendly meal that everyone will love.
At a glance
- Time: 45 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 4
- Cost: Affordable
Macros (per serving)
- Protein: 27 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbs: 1 g
- Energy: 270 kcal
Ingredients
- 8 pieces Chicken drumsticks (about 1 kg, skin-on)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1 tsp Salt (fine sea salt)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper (freshly ground)
- 3 Garlic cloves (minced)
- 40g Butter (unsalted)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1/2 tsp Dried thyme
Equipment Needed
- Baking tray
- Wire rack
- Mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Pastry brush
- Tongs
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan 180°C). Line a baking tray with foil and set a wire rack on top.
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with kitchen paper. Place them in a mixing bowl.
- Drizzle the drumsticks with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange the drumsticks on the wire rack, spacing them apart for even cooking.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway, until the skin is golden and crisp and juices run clear.
- While the chicken bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chopped parsley and remove from heat.
- Once the drumsticks are cooked, brush generously with the garlic herb butter while still hot.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavours to meld.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens:
Recipe contains: dairy
Potential swaps:
- Butter → Dairy-free spread or ghee — For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter alternative or ghee.
- Olive oil → Avocado oil — Avocado oil works well for high-heat baking.
Serving Ideas
- Cauliflower mash – Creamy and low-carb, perfect for soaking up the garlic butter.
- Sautéed green beans – Adds crunch and freshness to the meal.
- Simple green salad – Light and refreshing to balance the richness.
Additional Info
Chefs Tips
- Patting the chicken dry ensures crispier skin.
- Let the drumsticks rest after baking for juicier meat.
- For extra flavour, marinate the chicken in the seasoning for up to 12 hours.
Variations
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavour.
- Swap parsley for fresh coriander for a different herb profile.
- Use lemon zest in the butter for a citrusy twist.
Troubleshooting
- If the skin isn't crisping, increase oven temperature to 220°C for the last 5 minutes.
- If drumsticks are browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge. They reheat well and are great for meal prep.
- Fridge: up to 4 days
- Freezer: up to 2 months
- Reheat: Reheat in a hot oven (180°C) for 10–12 minutes until piping hot and skin is crisp.
Ingredient Spotlight
Chicken drumsticks: Naturally high in protein and fat, drumsticks are flavourful and perfect for keto.
Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and pairs beautifully with herbs and butter.
Butter: Provides richness and helps carry the herb and garlic flavours throughout the dish.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Yes, chicken thighs work well—adjust baking time as they may cook slightly faster.
How do I know when the drumsticks are cooked through?
They are done when juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 75°C.
Can I make these ahead for meal prep?
Absolutely. Store cooked drumsticks in the fridge and reheat in the oven for best texture.
Is this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets?
Yes, simply swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative or ghee.
What sides go well with these drumsticks?
Try cauliflower mash, sautéed greens, or a crisp salad for a complete keto meal.
Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Garlic Herb Butter
Ingredients
- 8 pieces Chicken drumsticks (about 1 kg, skin-on)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1 tsp Salt (fine sea salt)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper (freshly ground)
- 3 Garlic cloves (minced)
- 40g Butter (unsalted)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1/2 tsp Dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan 180°C). Line a baking tray with foil and set a wire rack on top.
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with kitchen paper. Place them in a mixing bowl.
- Drizzle the drumsticks with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange the drumsticks on the wire rack, spacing them apart for even cooking.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway, until the skin is golden and crisp and juices run clear.
- While the chicken bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chopped parsley and remove from heat.
- Once the drumsticks are cooked, brush generously with the garlic herb butter while still hot.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavours to meld.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens: dairy
- Butter → Dairy-free spread or ghee — For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter alternative or ghee.
- Olive oil → Avocado oil — Avocado oil works well for high-heat baking.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Protein: 27 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbs: 1 g
- Energy: 270 kcal
