Fried chicken drumsticks over rice with vegetables

Fried chicken drumsticks over rice with vegetables

Who doesn't love a delicious meal made with love? This recipe for fried chicken drumsticks served over a bed of rice with vegetables is not only comforting but also packed with flavors that will delight your senses. Whether you're making it for a weekend dinner or a family celebration, this dish is sure to gather all eyes at the table.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 6 chicken drumsticks
- 1 carrot (for boiling)
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- A pinch of chili paste (optional, for a spicy taste)
- 2-3 cubes of frozen spinach (or fresh, but it will require more preparation time)
- ½ zucchini (diced)
- 6 ladles of rice (about 300 g)
- 20 ladles of broth (about 1.5 l)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons of margarine (or olive oil, if preferred)
- Dried thyme (to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the chicken drumsticks

Start by adding the 6 chicken drumsticks to a large pot with about 2.5 liters of water. Add the peeled carrot and salt to taste. Boil over medium heat until the drumsticks are fully cooked (about 30 minutes). This step will give the meat a juicy texture and create a delicious broth base.

Step 2: Preparing the vegetables

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the diced onion. Cover the skillet with a lid so the vegetables steam and retain their nutrients. After a few minutes, add the diced bell peppers (red, yellow, and green) and zucchini. Continue to sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they become slightly soft.

Step 3: Cooking the rice

Once the chicken drumsticks are boiled, remove them from the pot and let them cool slightly. Use the remaining broth to cook the rice. Add 6 ladles of rice to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables and mix well, allowing it to fry for 2-3 minutes. Then, add 20 ladles of warm broth from the pot of drumsticks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the rice simmer over medium heat, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until tender.

Step 4: Frying the chicken drumsticks

Meanwhile, prepare the chicken drumsticks. Sprinkle them with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme to taste. In a separate skillet, add 1-2 tablespoons of margarine. When the margarine is melted, add the drumsticks and fry them over medium heat until golden and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. My favorite trick is to add a bit of baked apple juice, obtained from an apple pie you can make at the same time; this way, you'll get an amazing flavor.

Step 5: Assembling the dish

When the rice is ready, add the fried drumsticks on top and let them steam together under the lid for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. This steaming technique will ensure that the rice absorbs all the delicious juices and becomes even more savory.

Serving

Serve this dish warm, seasoned with a fresh spring salad or pickles. It’s a perfect combination that will add freshness and complement the rich flavors of the chicken drumsticks and rice.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. Chicken drumsticks provide quality protein, while the vegetables bring essential vitamins and minerals. Rice is a good source of carbohydrates, and spinach, rich in iron and fiber, contributes to a balanced meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other parts of the chicken?
Yes, you can also use chicken breast or boneless thighs, but the cooking time will be reduced.

2. How can I adapt the recipe for a vegetarian version?
You can replace the chicken drumsticks with marinated and cooked tofu or tempeh, and the chicken broth with vegetable broth.

3. What other vegetables can I use?
You can add carrots, peas, or mushrooms, depending on your preferences.

4. How can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.

Combination ideas

This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a fresh lemonade. Additionally, a potato salad or a green salad with yogurt dressing would make an excellent complement.

In conclusion, this recipe for fried chicken drumsticks over rice with vegetables is not only easy to make but also full of flavor. Experiment with the ingredients and find the combinations you like the most. Enjoy your meal!