Chicken drumsticks with bacon and mashed potatoes

Chicken drumsticks with bacon and mashed potatoes: A delicious and comforting combination

In the culinary world, few dishes are as comforting and loved as chicken drumsticks with bacon, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes. This simple and quick recipe promises to turn an ordinary dinner into a memorable culinary experience. Additionally, the mashed potatoes are a perfect accompaniment to absorb the flavorful juices of the meat. Let’s begin our culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the chicken drumsticks:
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 8 slices of bacon
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder

For the mashed potatoes:
- 8 medium potatoes
- 1 cube of butter (approximately 50 g)
- 1 cup of milk (approximately 100 ml)
- 1/4 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the sauce for the drumsticks
Start by preparing the sauce that will flavor your drumsticks. In a bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of olive oil, a pinch of salt, sweet paprika, thyme, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well until you obtain a smooth paste. This sauce will envelop the drumsticks in delicious flavors, so don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Preparing the drumsticks
Wash the drumsticks well under cold water and dry them with a paper towel. Then, to allow the marinade to penetrate better, lightly score the skin of the drumsticks. This step will not only help absorb the flavors but will also make the skin crispier after baking. Dip each drumstick in the prepared sauce, ensuring it is well coated. Place them in a baking dish lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Baking the drumsticks
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let the drumsticks bake for 45-50 minutes. They will cook slowly, becoming tender and juicy, while the skin will brown beautifully.

Step 4: Preparing the mashed potatoes
Meanwhile, let’s prepare the mashed potatoes. Fill a pot with water and add a teaspoon of salt. Peel the potatoes, rinse them well, and cut them in half. Once the water starts to boil, add the potatoes and let them boil for about 40 minutes, or until soft.

Step 5: Making the mash
After the potatoes have boiled, drain the water and mash them using a fork or a potato masher, depending on the desired texture. Add the cube of butter and the finely chopped parsley. Incorporate the cup of milk, mixing well. Taste the mash and adjust the salt to your preference. A creamy and flavorful mash will make every bite a delight.

Step 6: Wrapping the drumsticks in bacon
After 45-50 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Place the drumsticks on an absorbent towel to remove excess fat. Now comes the special moment: wrap each drumstick in 2 slices of bacon. This will add a touch of flavor and crunchiness, and the bacon will brown perfectly.

Step 7: Final baking
Put the drumsticks back in the prepared dish and return them to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, until the bacon becomes crispy and golden.

Step 8: Serving
Once the bacon is browned, remove the dish from the oven and let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes. Serve them alongside the mashed potatoes, garnished with a bit of fresh parsley for an extra splash of color.

Serving suggestion:
This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables, bringing a balance of textures and flavors. You can also add a yogurt or sour cream sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of chicken drumsticks with bacon and mashed potatoes has approximately 600-700 calories, depending on the amount of bacon and butter used. This dish provides quality protein from the chicken, essential carbohydrates from the potatoes, and healthy fats from the olive oil. Additionally, parsley adds a dose of vitamins and minerals, being a beneficial ingredient for the immune system.

Tips and variations:
- You can experiment with different spices in the sauce for the drumsticks, such as oregano or rosemary, to change the flavors.
- Instead of mashed potatoes, you can opt for cauliflower mash for a lighter version.
- If you want to add a touch of acidity, serve the dish with lemon or lime slices.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other parts of the chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken breast or thighs, but the baking time will vary.
2. How can I make the bacon crispier?
Make sure the bacon is evenly distributed on the drumsticks and not overlapping, to allow the hot air to circulate.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the drumsticks a day ahead and bake them when you’re ready to serve.

This recipe for chicken drumsticks with bacon and mashed potatoes is not just a delicious dish but also an opportunity to spend quality time in the kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a dinner for family or want to impress friends, this dish will bring smiles to everyone’s faces! Enjoy your meal!