Bacon-wrapped chicken thighs with mashed potatoes

Chicken drumsticks wrapped in bacon with creamy mashed potatoes

If you're looking for a delicious and satisfying recipe, chicken drumsticks wrapped in bacon with creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect choice! This classic combination not only impresses with its appetizing appearance but also with its rich and comforting flavor. Moreover, the recipe is easy to prepare, and the final result is sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 75 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the drumsticks:
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 8 slices of bacon
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- A pinch of salt
- ½ teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder

For the mashed potatoes:
- 8 medium potatoes
- 1 cube of butter (about 30 g)
- 1 cup of milk (about 240 ml)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt to taste

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the sauce for the drumsticks:
In a bowl, add the 3 tablespoons of olive oil, the pinch of salt, sweet paprika, thyme, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix the ingredients well to obtain a homogeneous sauce. This is your chance to experiment with your favorite spices — feel free to add a dash of chili for a spicy kick.

2. Preparing the drumsticks:
Rinse the drumsticks under cold running water. Then, with a sharp knife, make a few shallow incisions on the skin of the drumsticks. This not only helps the flavors penetrate but also ensures even cooking. Dip each drumstick into the prepared sauce, making sure they are well coated. Place the drumsticks in a baking dish lined with parchment paper.

3. Baking the drumsticks:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish with the drumsticks in the oven and let them bake for 45-50 minutes. At this stage, the delicious aroma will fill the kitchen, preparing your taste buds for a feast.

4. Preparing the mashed potatoes:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavor of the potatoes. Peel the potatoes, wash them, and cut them in half or into large cubes, depending on your preference. When the water is boiling, add the potatoes and let them cook for about 40 minutes, or until they become soft.

5. Mashing the potatoes:
After the potatoes have boiled, drain the water and use a fork or a masher to mash them to your liking. If you prefer a fluffier mash, a mixer can be very helpful, but be careful not to over-mix to avoid a gummy texture. Add the cube of butter and the chopped parsley, mixing well. Finally, gradually incorporate the milk, adjusting the amount to achieve the desired consistency. Taste and add salt as needed.

6. Finishing the drumsticks:
After 45-50 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Use a paper towel to blot the drumsticks, removing excess fat. Wrap each drumstick in two slices of bacon, ensuring they are well covered. Return the drumsticks to the dish and let them bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and golden.

7. Serving:
Once the bacon is crispy, remove the drumsticks from the oven and serve them alongside the creamy mashed potatoes. For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a few fresh parsley leaves on top.

Serving suggestions and variations
- For an extra flavor boost, add sour cream to the mashed potatoes for a richer texture and taste.
- Variations of the mash: try adding roasted garlic or parmesan cheese for a distinctive flavor.
- Complementary recipes: This recipe pairs wonderfully with a fresh vegetable salad or grilled vegetables, providing a pleasant contrast to the texture of the drumsticks and mash.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted for chicken thighs or even pork.

2. How can I store the drumsticks for the next day?
Keep the drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat them in the oven or in a skillet to maintain the crispy texture of the bacon.

3. Is this recipe healthy?
Chicken drumsticks are a good source of protein, and mashed potatoes provide complex carbohydrates. You can adjust the amount of butter and bacon to make it healthier.

Calories and nutritional benefits
This recipe has about 600 calories per serving, due to the bacon and butter. However, chicken drumsticks are an excellent source of protein, and potatoes provide essential vitamins and minerals, such as potassium and vitamin C.

Personal note
What I love most about this recipe is the incredible aroma that the bacon emits while baking, combined with the juiciness of the drumsticks. It’s a dish that brings back memories of family Sunday dinners, where every dish was filled with love and care. I encourage you to share this recipe with your loved ones, as food has the power to bring people together.

Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away by its delicious flavors! Enjoy!