Grilled Chicken Drumsticks with Fresh Salad is a flavorful and nutritious meal that combines juicy, marinated drumsticks with a crisp, refreshing salad. The smoky char from the grill enhances the chicken’s taste, while the salad provides a light and vibrant contrast. This dish is perfect for summer cookouts, family dinners, or meal prep, offering a balance of protein, fresh vegetables, and zesty dressing.
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Chicken Drumsticks:
- 6-8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
For the Fresh Salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup black olives
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and chili flakes.
- Add the chicken drumsticks and coat them evenly.
- Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Preheat the Grill:
- Heat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Place the drumsticks on the grill and cook for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and black olives.
- Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad.
- Season with salt and pepper, then toss to combine.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Plate the grilled drumsticks alongside the fresh salad.
- Garnish with extra lemon slices if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Grilled Chicken Drumsticks:
- Marinate Longer: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked perfectly without drying out.
- Customize the Salad: Swap ingredients based on preference—try adding avocado or roasted nuts for extra texture.
This Grilled Chicken Drumsticks with Fresh Salad is a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. You can find a similar recipe here. Let me know if you’d like any variations or additional tips! 🍗🥗