5 Delicious Chicken Drumstick Recipes You'll Love

Chicken drumsticks are a versatile and budget-friendly cut of chicken that can be transformed into a variety of delicious meals. Whether you're hosting a family dinner, a casual cookout, or simply want a tasty treat for yourself, these 5 Delicious Chicken Drumstick Recipes will certainly win you over with their flavors and ease of preparation.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks

To start off, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks are an excellent way to pack flavor into your meal. Here’s how you can make them:

• Ingredients:
  • 8 Chicken drumsticks
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • ¹⁄₂ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
• Steps:
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Mix garlic, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  3. Coat each drumstick with olive oil, then roll in the Parmesan mixture.
  4. Place drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  6. Garnish with parsley before serving.

⚡ Note: Ensure drumsticks are evenly spaced on the baking sheet to allow for air circulation, which helps in even cooking.

Honey Soy Glazed Drumsticks

Next up is a sweet and tangy treat with Honey Soy Glazed Drumsticks, perfect for those who enjoy an East Asian twist in their dishes.

• Ingredients:
  • 6-8 chicken drumsticks
  • ¹⁄₂ cup soy sauce
  • ¹⁄₄ cup honey
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
  • 1 green onion, chopped
• Steps:
  1. In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Simmer until thickened.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  3. Brush drumsticks with the sauce and place on a baking rack over a baking sheet.
  4. Roast for 30 minutes, basting halfway through with remaining sauce.
  5. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Spicy Buffalo Drumsticks

For those who crave heat, Spicy Buffalo Drumsticks are a surefire crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

• Ingredients:
  • 10 chicken drumsticks
  • ¹⁄₂ cup hot sauce
  • ¹⁄₄ cup butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp white vinegar
  • Salt and pepper
  • Blue cheese or ranch dressing (optional for dipping)
• Steps:
  1. Melt butter in a saucepan, add garlic, and cook until fragrant.
  2. Add hot sauce and vinegar, then simmer for 2 minutes.
  3. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  4. Season drumsticks with salt and pepper, place on a baking sheet, and bake for 25 minutes.
  5. Brush with buffalo sauce and bake for another 10-15 minutes or until fully cooked.
  6. Serve with your choice of dipping sauce.

Lemon Herb Grilled Drumsticks

Grilled chicken drumsticks offer a lighter option, especially when paired with a zesty lemon and herb marinade.

• Ingredients:
  • 8 chicken drumsticks
  • Juice and zest of 2 lemons
  • ¹⁄₄ cup olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or oregano)
  • Salt and pepper
• Steps:
  1. Mix lemon juice, zest, olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
  2. Add drumsticks and marinate for at least 1 hour, up to overnight.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the drumsticks, turning occasionally, until fully cooked (about 20-30 minutes).
  5. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Baked BBQ Drumsticks

Ending our list with a classic, Baked BBQ Drumsticks provide all the flavors of a summer barbecue, without ever having to light a grill.

• Ingredients:
  • 10-12 chicken drumsticks
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Steps:
  1. Mix BBQ sauce, Worcestershire, brown sugar, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  3. Coat drumsticks with half of the BBQ mixture and place on a baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 30 minutes, then brush with remaining sauce, and bake for another 20 minutes or until cooked through.
  5. Let rest before serving.

These recipes showcase the versatility of chicken drumsticks, offering something for everyone from the spice lovers to those seeking a more delicate flavor profile. Each method, whether baking, grilling, or roasting, highlights different aspects of flavor, texture, and convenience. With these recipes in hand, you're well on your way to becoming the go-to chef for drumsticks at any meal or gathering.

Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks for these recipes?

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Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Thawing ensures even cooking and better absorption of flavors from marinades or coatings.

How long can I store leftover drumsticks?

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Leftover cooked drumsticks should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking. They can be safely stored for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.

What are some side dish ideas to pair with chicken drumsticks?

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Consider pairing your drumsticks with:

• Coleslaw
• Grilled vegetables
• Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Rice pilaf
• Green salad