Here’s a flavorful and balanced recipe for Grilled Chicken Drumsticks with Fresh Salad — perfect for a summer lunch, weeknight dinner, or backyard BBQ.
🍗🥗 Grilled Chicken Drumsticks with Fresh Salad
🔪 Ingredients
For the Grilled Chicken Drumsticks:
-
8 chicken drumsticks (skin-on for crispy texture, optional)
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
Juice of 1 lemon
-
1 tsp smoked paprika
-
1 tsp dried oregano
-
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
-
1 tsp salt
-
Optional: 1/2 tsp chili flakes for heat
For the Fresh Salad:
-
2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, romaine, etc.)
-
1 cucumber, sliced
-
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
-
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
-
1/2 avocado, sliced or cubed
-
Feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
Simple Lemon Vinaigrette:
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
1 tbsp lemon juice
-
1 tsp Dijon mustard
-
1/2 tsp honey or maple syrup
-
Salt & pepper to taste
🔥 Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken:
-
In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
-
Add chicken drumsticks and coat well.
-
Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for more flavor).
2. Grill the Drumsticks:
-
Preheat grill to medium heat (around 375°F / 190°C).
-
Grill drumsticks for about 25–30 minutes, turning every 5–7 minutes, until cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
-
Optional: finish over higher heat to crisp the skin.
3. Prepare the Salad:
-
In a large bowl, toss greens, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and avocado.
-
Whisk together vinaigrette ingredients and drizzle over the salad just before serving. Toss gently.
-
Top with crumbled feta if using.
4. Serve:
-
Plate 2–3 drumsticks per person alongside a generous portion of salad.
-
Optional garnish: lemon wedges and fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
🍷 Pairing Suggestions:
-
Drink: Iced tea, lemonade, or chilled white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
-
Side: Grilled corn, roasted potatoes, or crusty bread