5 Easy Drumstick Chicken Recipes to Try Tonight
If you're looking to jazz up your dinner routine, drumstick chicken is an excellent choice. These recipes are not just easy to whip up but also incredibly flavorful, ensuring your meals are anything but ordinary. Let's dive into some delicious ways to prepare this versatile cut of chicken that will have your taste buds and family craving more.
Recipe 1: Garlic Parmesan Drumsticks
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix Parmesan, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Coat the drumsticks in this mixture.
- Arrange the drumsticks on the baking sheet. Brush or drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Recipe 2: Honey Soy Glazed Drumsticks
Ingredients:
- 8 drumsticks
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce to a thick glaze.
- Brush the drumsticks with the glaze and bake for about 30 minutes. Every 10 minutes, take them out, baste with more glaze, and return to oven.
- Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch.
⚠️ Note: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid undercooking.
Recipe 3: Spicy BBQ Drumsticks
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, hot sauce, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Coat the drumsticks in this spicy mix.
- Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet and bake for about 40 minutes, basting with the sauce halfway through.
- Serve hot for a spicy kick to your meal.
Recipe 4: Lemon Herb Drumsticks
Ingredients:
- 8 drumsticks
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.
- Mix lemon juice, zest, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add drumsticks and toss to coat.
- Spread them out on the baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Finish with a dash of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Recipe 5: Curried Drumsticks with Yogurt
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine yogurt, curry powder, turmeric, coriander, garlic, and lemon juice. Coat drumsticks thoroughly.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve with a side of rice or a cucumber salad to complement the spicy and rich flavors.
These drumstick chicken recipes offer a wide range of flavors, from the comforting garlic Parmesan to the exotic curried drumsticks. Whether you prefer something spicy, sweet, or tangy, there's something here for everyone. Cooking drumsticks is not only simple but also allows for endless creativity in the kitchen. By incorporating these methods, you can bring variety to your dinner table with little effort, ensuring your family or guests are always surprised and delighted by your culinary skills.
How long do drumsticks take to cook?
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The average baking time for drumsticks ranges from 35 to 45 minutes at an oven temperature of 375°F (190°C) to 400°F (200°C), depending on the size and number of drumsticks being cooked. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Can these recipes be made in advance?
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Yes, you can marinate drumsticks ahead of time or even cook them in advance. Simply reheat before serving, but for best results, try to enjoy them within a day or two of preparation to maintain freshness.
What side dishes go well with these drumstick recipes?
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Potato salad, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a simple garden salad would pair wonderfully. For recipes with a spicy or curry flavor, a cooling yogurt or cucumber dip can be a refreshing complement.
