Keto Chicken Drumsticks are a perfect blend of crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. Coated in a flavorful mix of herbs, spices, and a touch of parmesan, they’re baked to perfection. Paired wonderfully with a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a wholesome, keto-friendly dish.
Why Choose Keto Chicken Drumsticks?
Chicken drumsticks are not only delicious, but they’re also budget-friendly, which makes them perfect for anyone on a keto diet who wants to keep their grocery bills in check. The meat is rich and flavorful, especially when cooked with the skin on, and the fat content helps to keep you feeling satisfied for longer.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn these drumsticks into a mouthwatering meal that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. No breading, no carbs—just pure chicken goodness.
These keto baked chicken legs and thighs are coated with olive oil, mustard, lemon juice, and other seasoning and baked until golden perfection.
What Part of Chicken to Use?
As you can guess from the name ‘keto chicken drumsticks recipe’, we are using chicken drumsticks, but yes, you can use chicken breasts or tenderloins (make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly)
Are Chicken Drumsticks Keto Friendly?
Yes absolutely! that is what i am here to share. Don’t worry this recipe is a proper fit for anyone who is looking for keto-approved recipe.
Now you may have the question, is baked keto chicken legs or drumsticks healthy?
Look eating baked version is much healthier than fried chicken which I have already shared earlier (check that out).
You can further make it healthier if you use the skinless chicken legs, by doing that you can avoid extra fat content but remember that you will not get that crispiness.
How Long to Bake the Chicken Drumsticks?
For the best results, bake the chicken legs at high for 50 minutes in total (25 minutes per side) at 425 degrees. For the crispy skin, bake for more 5-10 minutes at the last (don’t worry the meat will not dry out)
But before anything, you must check whether the chicken you are eating is properly cooked or not. You can use a meat thermometer and insert it into the leg (make sure not to hit the bone or else it will different readings) and see whether it reach at least 165F (185F to 190F internal temperature is good)
How Long to Marinade the Chicken?
You can keep this keto chicken drumsticks marinade for at least an hour. For the best results marinate for 6 hours.
How to Make Low Carb Baked Chicken Drumsticks?
This recipe I have already shared earlier (check that out in detail) but here’s the recipe how you can make it in the baking dish.
- Take the drumsticks and make 2-3 cuts on each leg.
- In a bowl and combine 4 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, 2 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp cayenne, 1/2 tsp dried oregano and mix well.
- Take a large ziploc bag and place the chicken drumsticks and spread the marinade to coat the chicken and marinate for at least an hour to 6 hours.
- Preheat oven to 375°
- Lightly spray the baking dish with cooking spray and place the chicken drumsticks ( this is optional but you can pour the remaining marinade to get extra flavor of all the spices)
- Place the dish on the oven and bake for 45 minutes or until crispy on the outside and the internal temperature reaches at least 175 degrees when inserted meat thermometer.
- Done! Serve immediately alongside any low carb salad.
How to Serve:
Keto chicken drumsticks are versatile and can be paired with a variety of keto-friendly sides. Here are some ideas:
- Cauliflower Rice: Light, fluffy, and low in carbs, cauliflower rice is the perfect side to soak up any juices from the drumsticks.
- Zucchini Noodles: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, zucchini noodles add a refreshing crunch alongside the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Keto Mashed Potatoes: For a classic comfort food pairing, make mashed cauliflower instead of traditional potatoes.
- Green Salad: A crisp green salad with avocado, cucumber, and a tangy dressing makes a refreshing side to balance the richness of the chicken.
How to Store:
These keto chicken drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let them cool completely before storing. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe FAQs:
1. Can I make keto chicken drumsticks in advance? Yes, you can make these drumsticks ahead of time. Prepare the chicken and let it marinate in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake or grill them as usual.
2. Are chicken drumsticks keto-friendly? Absolutely! Chicken drumsticks are naturally high in protein and fats, while being low in carbs, making them perfect for a keto diet.
3. How do I get crispy chicken drumsticks? To get crispy skin, it’s essential to dry the chicken thoroughly before seasoning, bake them at a high temperature, and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
4. Can I make these drumsticks on the grill? Yes, grilling is a fantastic option! Cook them on medium heat, turning every few minutes, for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. What are some keto-friendly sides to serve with chicken drumsticks? Some great keto sides include cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Keto Chicken Drumsticks (Low Carb Baked)
Keto Chicken Drumsticks are a perfect blend of crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. Coated in a flavorful mix of herbs, spices, and a touch of parmesan, they’re baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 3 pound chicken drumsticks (about 8-10 drumsticks)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a small bowl, add olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon juice, dijon, garlic powder, and cloves, and mix until well combined.
- Take a mixing bowl and add the drumsticks, pour in the marinade and mix until well coated. Let it marinate for at least an hour to 6 hours
- Preheat the oven to 400˚F.
- Line a baking sheet with foil and place the rack over the tray and then place the drumsticks.
- Pour in the marinade or brush to get all the flavors.
- Bake for 50 minutes, 25 minutes per side, flip the drumsticks in between.
- Broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes on high for crispier skin.
- Done! Serve hot with low carb cauliflower rice, salad or roasted asparagus.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size
4Amount Per Serving Calories 621Total Fat 38gSaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 313mgSodium 1124mgCarbohydrates 2gProtein 62g
Still Hungry! Try these other keto chicken recipes:
- Keto Chicken Piccata
- Low Carb Sesame Chicken
- Low Carb Teriyaki Chicken
- Keto Orange Chicken With Orange Marmalade
Final Thoughts:
These Keto Chicken Drumsticks are not just delicious but also an easy and satisfying way to stick to your low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re hosting a keto-friendly dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe will become one of your favorites. Serve them with your favorite keto sides, and you’ve got a complete, nutrient-packed meal the whole family will love.
