5 Delicious and Nutritious Ways to Cook Chicken Drumsticks: Tips, Tricks, and Recipes

Introduction

Do you struggle with cooking chicken drumsticks? Do they always turn out dry or undercooked? Or do you want to try new recipes and techniques to jazz up your chicken dinners? Look no further! In this article, we will share 5 delicious and easy ways to cook chicken drumsticks, tips and tricks for cooking them perfectly every time, and one-pot wonders and low-calorie recipes for healthy eating. Get ready to become a drumstick cooking master!

5 Delicious and Easy Ways to Cook Chicken Drumsticks

Cooking chicken drumsticks doesn’t have to be boring or complicated. In fact, you can create a variety of delicious and unique flavors with different recipes and techniques. Here are five of our favorites:

Oven-baked Honey Mustard Drumsticks

If you’re looking for a sweet and tangy flavor, these oven-baked honey mustard drumsticks are perfect. Here’s what you need:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Pat dry chicken drumsticks with paper towels and brush them with the honey mustard glaze.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Tip: During the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the drumsticks with more glaze for extra flavor and a shiny finish.

Slow Cooker BBQ Drumsticks

If you’re busy and want a fuss-free dinner, these slow cooker BBQ drumsticks are calling your name. Here’s what you need:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions:

1. Season chicken drumsticks with salt and pepper and place them in a large slow cooker.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken drumsticks and toss to coat.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.

Tip: For a smokier flavor, brown the chicken drumsticks in a skillet with oil before adding them to the slow cooker.

Grilled Lemon Herb Drumsticks

If you want a light and refreshing taste, these grilled lemon herb drumsticks are a winner. Here’s what you need:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, chopped herbs, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss to coat.
4. Grill the drumsticks for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, turning occasionally.
5. Remove from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tip: For more lemon flavor, zest a lemon and add the zest to the marinade.

Roasted Garlic and Herb Drumsticks

If you’re a garlic lover, these roasted garlic and herb drumsticks will make your taste buds dance. Here’s what you need:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary)
• 1 head of garlic, roasted and minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped herbs, roasted garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Trim any excess skin or fat from the chicken drumsticks and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Place the drumsticks in a baking dish or cast-iron skillet and pour the garlic herb mixture over them.
5. Bake for 35-45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Garnish with more chopped herbs, if desired.

Tip: For a slightly sweet flavor, add a tablespoon of honey to the garlic herb mixture.

Fried Crispy Sesame Drumsticks

If you’re craving something crunchy and flavorful, these fried crispy sesame drumsticks won’t disappoint. Here’s what you need:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Pat dry chicken drumsticks with paper towels.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cold water to make a batter.
4. Dredge the chicken drumsticks in the sesame seeds, shaking off any excess.
5. Dip the chicken drumsticks in the batter, making sure they are fully coated.
6. Gently place the drumsticks in the hot oil and fry for 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tip: For an Asian touch, serve the crispy drumsticks with spicy mayo or sweet and sour sauce.

Mastering the Art of Cooking Drumsticks: Tips and Tricks for Success

Now that you have some new recipes to try, let’s discuss some tips and tricks for cooking drumsticks like a pro.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

The most common mistake people make when cooking drumsticks is overcooking or undercooking them. To avoid this, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and cook them until it reaches 165°F. Another mistake is not seasoning or marinating the drumsticks enough, which can result in bland or dry meat. Use plenty of herbs, spices, and marinades to enhance the flavor and keep the meat moist.

Selecting and Preparing the Best Quality Drumsticks

When choosing chicken drumsticks, look for ones that are fresh and plump, with no bruises or discoloration. Free-range or organic chicken may be a better option as they are less likely to have added hormones or antibiotics. To prepare the drumsticks for cooking, remove any excess skin or fat and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the skin crisp up and prevent the meat from getting soggy.

Seasoning and Marinating Tips

Seasoning and marinating drumsticks is key to adding flavor and moisture to the meat. Here are some tips:

• Use a variety of herbs and spices, such as garlic, onion, paprika, cumin, oregano, and thyme.
• Add acidity (such as lemon juice, vinegar, or wine) to tenderize the meat and balance out the flavors.
• Use oil or yogurt as a base for the marinade to help the flavors penetrate the meat and keep it moist.
• Marinate the drumsticks for at least 30 minutes and up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Cooking Techniques for Crispy Skin and Moist, Tender Meat

Here are some cooking techniques for achieving the perfect crispy skin and moist, tender meat:

• Bake drumsticks at high temperature (around 425°F) to create a crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and tender.
• Grill drumsticks over medium-high heat to char the skin and infuse smoky flavor into the meat.
• Roast drumsticks in the oven with a mixture of oil, herbs, and spices to create a crispy and flavorful crust.
• Slow cook drumsticks in a crockpot or Dutch oven to make the meat fall-off-the-bone tender and juicy.

From Oven-Baked to Grilled: A Guide to Preparing Perfect Drumsticks

Different cooking methods can produce different results, so it’s good to know how to prepare drumsticks for each one. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular cooking methods:

Oven-baking

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Pat dry the drumsticks with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper. Place the drumsticks on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet or cast-iron skillet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Grilling

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.