Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt to create your spice blend.
Step 4: Rub the drumsticks with 2 tbsp olive oil, then coat generously with the spice mixture.
Step 5: Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over each drumstick, pressing gently so it adheres.
Step 6: Arrange drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the cheese is golden and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 7: While the chicken bakes, prepare your salad by combining lettuce, sliced cucumber, and cherry tomatoes in a large bowl.
Step 8: Dress the salad with 1 tbsp olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice, then toss gently.
Step 9: Remove chicken from the oven and let cool for 2 minutes before serving alongside the fresh salad.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the salad in a separate container to prevent it from becoming soggy.
To reheat the chicken, place it on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 to 12 minutes until heated through. This keeps the crust crispy rather than microwaving.
You can also enjoy the cold chicken the next day straight from the fridge, perfect for lunch boxes or quick meals. Simply prepare a fresh batch of salad when you’re ready to eat.
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