Chicken drumsticks in yogurt crust

Chicken Drumsticks in Yogurt Crust - A Tasty and Aromatic Recipe

Discover a delicious dish that will transform an ordinary meal into a feast! Chicken drumsticks in yogurt crust are tender, golden, and full of flavor, making them perfect for a family lunch or a dinner with friends. This easy-to-make recipe is sure to become one of your favorites. Let's begin this culinary adventure!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 4 hours (or less if you're in a hurry)
Baking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours and 10 minutes
Number of Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the drumsticks:
- 6 chicken drumsticks (preferably boneless)
- 1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons pizza seasoning (a mix of garlic, marjoram, pepper, basil, oregano, thyme, and anise)
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste

For the crust:
- 3 tablespoons yogurt (preferably Greek for a creamier texture)
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- Breadcrumbs (enough to coat the drumsticks)
- A drizzle of oil (to help brown the crust)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Drumsticks
Wash the chicken drumsticks well and remove the skin if you prefer a lighter version. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which will help achieve a crispy crust.

Step 2: Marinating the Drumsticks
In a large bowl, mix the soy sauce, pizza seasoning, lemon juice, sweet paprika, chili, salt, and pepper. Add the drumsticks to the marinade and ensure they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. If you're pressed for time, you can skip this step and go straight to preparing the crust.

Step 3: Preparing the Crust
In another bowl, combine the yogurt, egg yolk, mustard, and garlic powder. Mix well until you achieve a smooth consistency. This crust will give the drumsticks a wonderful texture and refined taste.

Step 4: Coating the Drumsticks
Remove the drumsticks from the marinade and gently drain them. Dip them in the yogurt mixture, then roll them in breadcrumbs until fully coated. This step is essential for achieving a crispy crust.

Step 5: Baking
Preheat the oven to 190-200°C. Place the drumsticks on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 50 minutes, until they are golden and crispy.

Step 6: Oiling and Turning
After 30 minutes of baking, remove the tray from the oven and lightly brush the drumsticks with a drizzle of oil. This will help them brown nicely. After 10 minutes, turn the drumsticks over to ensure even browning.

Serving and Recommendations

Once the drumsticks are ready, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them warm, alongside a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables. Additionally, a yogurt sauce with mint or a spicy sauce can add an extra layer of flavor.

Personal Tip and Variations

If you want to experiment, you can add various fresh herbs to the yogurt mixture, such as dill or parsley, for an even more aromatic taste. Also, replacing the chicken drumsticks with thighs or even fish fillets can provide a delicious alternative.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken drumsticks are an excellent source of protein, essential for maintaining muscle and overall health. The added yogurt not only improves the crust's texture but also brings beneficial probiotics for digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use low-fat yogurt?
Yes, but Greek yogurt provides a better texture and more intense flavor.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! Marinating the drumsticks can be done a day ahead, and baking can be done when you're ready to serve.

How can I adapt the recipe to be gluten-free?
You can use rice breadcrumbs or ground cornflakes instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

Chicken drumsticks in yogurt crust are not only a simple recipe but also a true culinary delight. With every bite, you'll experience perfectly blended flavors, and the contrasting textures will delight your taste buds. Experiment, adapt, and enjoy this tasty dish! Don't forget to share the recipe with friends and family to enjoy together the delights cooked with love. Bon appétit!