Chicken drumsticks with zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes

Chicken drumsticks with zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes: An imperial dinner!

If you are looking for a delicious and flavorful dinner, chicken drumsticks with zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes are the perfect choice. This recipe not only combines aromatic ingredients but also offers a culinary experience that will pamper you and your loved ones. Let's discover together how to prepare this simple yet impressive dish!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 6 chicken drumsticks
- 100 ml dry red wine
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 1 large eggplant
- 1 large tomato
- Iodized salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Mediterranean spices (oregano, dried garlic, rosemary)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the drumsticks: Start by washing the chicken drumsticks under cold running water. Make sure to remove any remaining feathers, then lightly score the top to allow the spices to penetrate better. Season with salt and Mediterranean spices, setting them aside to absorb the flavors.

2. Cooking the drumsticks: Heat a deep skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add the chicken drumsticks and let them brown for about 10 minutes on each side. It's important not to turn them too early to achieve a nice, crispy crust.

3. Adding the wine: Once the drumsticks are browned, pour the red wine into the skillet. The wine will add depth of flavor and help tenderize the meat. Let it cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, covering the skillet with a lid to retain moisture.

4. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel the zucchinis and slice them into rounds about 1 cm thick. In a deep fryer or skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil and fry the zucchini rounds. Let them cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally for even browning.

5. Preparing the eggplant: Cut the eggplant lengthwise in half, sprinkle salt on each side, and let it sit for 5 minutes. This will help remove bitterness. After 5 minutes, squeeze the eggplant well to remove the accumulated juice. Slice the eggplant and add it to the skillet with the zucchini, mixing well.

6. Adding the tomato: Slice the tomato thinly and add it to the skillet, seasoning with Mediterranean spices. Let the vegetables cook together for about 10 minutes until they become tender and fragrant.

7. Serving: The chicken drumsticks are ready when they are beautifully browned and juicy. Serve them alongside the gratin vegetables for a complete and healthy dinner. You can garnish with a few fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness.

Helpful tips:
- Choose chicken drumsticks with skin for a crispier and juicier crust.
- The red wine can be replaced with white wine if you prefer a lighter note.
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can add a few crushed garlic cloves to the skillet just before adding the vegetables.
- This recipe is easily adaptable: you can replace zucchini with courgettes or add bell peppers for extra color.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe for chicken drumsticks with vegetables is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Zucchini and eggplant are excellent sources of fiber, which supports digestion, while tomatoes provide powerful antioxidants like lycopene. Additionally, olive oil brings healthy fatty acids that are beneficial for the heart.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Certainly! You can replace chicken drumsticks with chicken thighs or even turkey meat, depending on your preferences.

2. Can I prepare the recipe in advance?
Yes, you can cook the drumsticks and vegetables a few hours before serving. Reheat them in the oven to restore the crispy texture.

3. What can I serve with this dish?
These drumsticks are excellent served with a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes. Also, a glass of red wine pairs perfectly with this meal.

This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of joy to every meal. So, put on your chef's apron and let the Mediterranean aromas take you away! Enjoy an imperial dinner that is simple and full of flavor!