1-Preheat and Prep Your Workspace: First Step: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Pat the 8 chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture, crucial for crispy skin on your baked chicken drumsticks. Grab a large mixing bowl. Drying the chicken takes about 5 minutes and sets the stage for maximum flavor absorption.

2-Create the Flavorful Marinade: Second Step: In the bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, 4 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. The lemon juice tenderizes the meat while the oil promotes browning. Taste the mixture and adjust salt if needed. This marinade infuses every bite with lemon pepper chicken goodness. Let it sit for 2 minutes to meld flavors.

3-Coat and Marinate the Drumsticks: Third Step: Add the dried drumsticks to the bowl and toss thoroughly to coat each one evenly. Use your hands or tongs for full coverage. For best results, let them marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes to 2 hours; even 15 minutes works for quick meals. This step locks in moisture and seasonings. Arrange drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, skin side up. Space them out to avoid steaming.

4-Bake to Crispy Perfection: Fourth Step: Place the sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through at the 20-minute mark. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer in the thickest part. Watch for golden-brown, crispy skin. If needed, broil for the last 2-3 minutes for extra crunch on these crispy baked lemon pepper chicken drumsticks. Total bake time keeps it hands-off.

5-Rest, Garnish, and Serve: Final Step: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This redistributes juices for tenderness. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side. Pair with roasted veggies or a simple salad. Your easy oven baked lemon pepper drumsticks are ready to enjoy, yielding crispy, flavorful results every time.