Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make this a great go-to recipe.
- Healthy and Nutritious – A protein-rich dish with a side of fresh vegetables.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for family dinners, outdoor grilling, or meal prep.
- Customizable – You can adjust the seasoning and salad ingredients to your preference.
- Juicy and Flavorful – The marinade ensures the chicken stays moist and delicious.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Grilled Chicken Drumsticks:
- Chicken drumsticks
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
- Lemon juice
- Soy sauce
- Honey (optional for a hint of sweetness)
For the Fresh Salad:
- Lettuce (Romaine, Iceberg, or Mixed Greens)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber, sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Bell pepper, chopped
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
- Feta cheese (optional)
- Black olives (optional)
Directions
- Marinate the Chicken – In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, lemon juice, soy sauce, and honey. Add the drumsticks and coat them evenly. Cover and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Preheat the Grill – Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Drumsticks – Place the marinated drumsticks on the grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are fully cooked and have a nice char on the outside. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Prepare the Salad – While the chicken is grilling, combine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Toss well. Add feta cheese and black olives if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy – Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Plate with the fresh salad and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes (or overnight)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (including marinating)
Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade.
- Mediterranean Twist – Use yogurt, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs for marination.
- BBQ Flavor – Brush the drumsticks with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling.
- Different Salad Add-ins – Try adding avocado, nuts, or dried cranberries for extra texture.
- Oven-Baked Option – Bake the drumsticks at 400°F for 35-40 minutes if you don't have a grill.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the salad separate to maintain freshness.
- Reheating: Warm the drumsticks in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes. The salad is best served fresh, but you can refresh it by adding a bit more lemon juice or olive oil.
FAQs
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Yes, chicken thighs work great and will be just as juicy and flavorful.
What’s the best way to marinate the chicken overnight?
Place the drumsticks in a ziplock bag with the marinade and refrigerate overnight for the best flavor.
Can I cook these in the oven instead of grilling?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What’s a good side dish besides salad?
Try roasted vegetables, rice, or grilled corn on the cob for a delicious pairing.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the drumsticks in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw before grilling.
How can I make this recipe low-carb?
Skip the honey in the marinade and avoid adding sweet dressings or high-carb veggies to the salad.
What’s the best oil to use for grilling?
Olive oil works well, but you can also use avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
Can I add a dressing to the salad?
Yes, a simple vinaigrette or Greek dressing complements the salad nicely.
How can I make the chicken extra crispy?
Grill over direct heat for the last few minutes, or broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes after grilling.
Conclusion
Grilled chicken drumsticks with a fresh salad is a simple yet flavorful meal that's perfect for any occasion. The smoky, juicy chicken pairs beautifully with the crisp salad, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, this recipe is easy to customize and guaranteed to impress. Try it today and enjoy a wholesome, delicious meal!
