Marinated chicken drumsticks

Delicious Marinated Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 2 hours
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 3 hours
Number of servings: 4

Introduction

Today, I invite you to discover a recipe that combines the rich flavors and succulent texture of marinated chicken drumsticks, perfect for a savory family dinner or a gathering with friends. These drumsticks are marinated in a spice blend that gives them an irresistible taste, and pairing them with fried potatoes and garlic sauce transforms them into a delicacy you won't forget easily. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe, and I will also provide some tips and variations to customize this dish. So, let’s get started!

Required Ingredients

- 7 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cm fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 glass of wine (preferably white)

Ingredient Details

- Chicken drumsticks: These are an excellent source of protein and contain more fat than chicken breast, making them juicier and tastier. Choose drumsticks with skin, as this helps retain moisture during cooking.
- Honey: Not only does it add a subtle sweetness, but it also aids in caramelizing the meat, giving it an appetizing golden appearance.
- Mustard seeds: They add a slightly spicy note and a unique flavor, and crushing them releases essential oils.
- Ginger: Contributes a fresh flavor and a bit of warmth, perfect for balancing the sweetness of the honey.
- Thyme: This aromatic herb adds an extra layer of flavor and an unmistakable fragrance.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the chicken drumsticks well. Use a paper towel to dry them, which will remove excess water and help the marinade adhere better.

2. Marinade: In a large bowl, add 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, 2 bay leaves, 2 cm of grated ginger, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and the 2 crushed garlic cloves. Mix all the ingredients until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.

3. Adding the wine: Pour 1 glass of white wine into the marinade mixture and mix again. The wine will add a complex flavor and help tenderize the meat.

4. Marinating: Place the chicken drumsticks in the marinade, ensuring they are evenly covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 2 hours. This is when the flavors will blend and penetrate the meat.

5. Preparing for the oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Remove the drumsticks from the marinade and place them in a baking dish. You can add the remaining spice mixture from the marinade on top for extra flavor.

6. Baking: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 30-45 minutes, until the meat is golden and crispy. Check occasionally to ensure they don’t dry out. If necessary, you can drizzle with a little oil or water to maintain juiciness.

7. Preparing the fried potatoes: While the drumsticks are in the oven, prepare the fried potatoes. Peel, cut, and soak the potatoes in a bowl of cold water for about 1 hour. This step helps remove starch and results in crispier fries.

8. Frying the potatoes: Heat oil in a deep pan. Once the oil is hot, add the potatoes and fry until golden and crispy. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

9. Serving: Serve the chicken drumsticks hot, alongside fried potatoes and a fresh garlic sauce. You can also add a green salad for a fresh and refreshing contrast.

Serving Suggestions

For an even more enjoyable culinary experience, you can add a slice of lemon or lime to the plate, which will bring a sour note that perfectly complements the intense flavors of the meat. Additionally, a glass of white wine, similar to the one used in the marinade, will enhance the meal.

Variations

If you want to experiment, you can try replacing honey with maple syrup for a different note of sweetness. You can also add some spices, such as paprika or chili, for a bit of heat.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken drumsticks are an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues. Additionally, ginger has anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, while garlic is known for its benefits in supporting the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can also use chicken thighs or even pork, but the cooking time will vary depending on the type of meat chosen.

2. Is long marinating necessary?
Although 2 hours is ideal, you can leave the drumsticks overnight for a more intense flavor.

3. How can I save time in preparation?
You can marinate the meat a day in advance and bake it the next day. This way, you'll save time on the day of serving.

4. What can I pair this dish with?
These drumsticks pair perfectly with a fresh summer salad or a side of grilled vegetables.

Conclusion

This marinated chicken drumsticks recipe is a perfect example of how you can transform simple ingredients into something truly special. With a little planning and a few tricks, you’ll create a dish that will impress anyone. Don’t hesitate to put your personal touch on the recipe and enjoy the cooking moment. Bon appétit!