Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

When it comes to a satisfying meal, few things beat the crunch of perfectly baked chicken drumsticks. This recipe combines the irresistible crispiness of fried chicken with the health benefits of baking, offering a guilt-free indulgence for any occasion. Follow these simple steps to create juicy, flavorful drumsticks that will leave everyone at the table craving for more.

Ingredients:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 2 cups of buttermilk
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

• Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl and cover them with buttermilk.
• Let the drumsticks marinate in the buttermilk for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator. This will tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

2. Preheat the Oven: litre

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan and make cleanup easier.

3. Prepare the Coating:

• In a shallow dish, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Coat the Chicken:

• Remove the chicken drumsticks from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
• Roll each drumstick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres evenly to the chicken.

5. Bake the Drumsticks:

• Place the coated drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
• Lightly spray the drumsticks with cooking spray or drizzle them with olive oil. This will help them achieve a crispy texture.
• Bake the drumsticks in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. To ensure they are done, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the drumstick – it should read at least 165°F (74°C).

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Once the drumsticks are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, if desired, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Conclusion:
With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can enjoy the crispy goodness of baked chicken drumsticks without the guilt. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, these flavorful drumsticks are sure to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a delicious and healthy meal that everyone will love.