Mushroom Baked Hammer

Oven-baked chicken drumsticks with mushrooms, a delicious and aromatic recipe, is the perfect choice for a comforting family dinner or a special occasion. This simple recipe transforms chicken drumsticks into a succulent and flavorful dish, thanks to the combination of mushrooms, bell pepper, and white wine. I invite you to discover this step-by-step recipe, which will not only delight your taste buds but will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 5 chicken drumsticks
- 1 can of mushrooms (about 400g)
- 1/2 red bell pepper (or sweet pepper)
- 1/2 cup (125 ml) white wine
- 1/2 cup (125 ml) tomato paste
- 1/2 cup (125 ml) water
- Salt, pepper, and seasoning (to taste)
- Olive oil (for greasing the tray)

Short story about the recipe:
Oven-baked drumsticks are a traditional dish in many cultures, often associated with family meals and special occasions. They are versatile and can be prepared in various ways, and the addition of mushrooms and bell pepper provides an extra burst of flavor and texture. The dish I propose today is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a special meal.

Step by step for a perfect dish:

1. Preparing the drumsticks:
Start by washing the chicken drumsticks well under cold running water. Dry them with a paper towel to remove excess water. Then, generously season them with salt, pepper, and seasoning. This step is essential to ensure an intense flavor for the dish.

2. Preparing the tray:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a large tray, grease the bottom with olive oil, making sure it is evenly covered. This will help prevent the drumsticks from sticking and will add a pleasant flavor.

3. Preparing the mushroom mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the drained canned mushrooms with the sliced bell pepper. Then add the white wine, tomato paste, and water, mixing well to achieve a uniform composition. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want to add an extra note of flavor, you can include some chopped garlic or herbs like oregano or thyme.

4. Assembling the dish:
Place the drumsticks in the greased tray, leaving enough space between them to allow hot air to circulate. Pour the mushroom and bell pepper mixture over the drumsticks, ensuring they are evenly covered with sauce.

5. Baking:
Place the tray in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 60 minutes. It is important to check occasionally and, if necessary, turn the drumsticks to ensure even browning. About 15 minutes before the baking time is up, you can raise the oven temperature to 200°C to achieve a golden and crispy crust.

6. Serving:
Once the drumsticks are cooked, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This step allows the juices to redistribute in the meat, resulting in a juicier dish. You can serve the drumsticks with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.

Tips and tricks:
- For a more intense flavor, you can add a few slices of onion or some garlic cloves to the mushroom mixture.
- Variations: If you don’t have canned mushrooms, you can use fresh mushrooms, sliced, which will add a crunchier texture to the dish. You can also experiment with different types of peppers or even vegetables like zucchini or carrots.
- White wine: Choose a medium-quality wine that is also good for drinking, as its flavors will intensify during baking.

Nutritional information:
This oven-baked chicken drumstick recipe is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken meat and includes fiber-rich vegetables like bell pepper and mushrooms. Each serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the size of the drumsticks and the amount of oil used. It is a balanced meal suitable for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can frozen drumsticks be used? Yes, but it is recommended to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Can I use other types of meat? Of course! This recipe also works with chicken thighs or even pork.
- How can I store leftovers? Remaining drumsticks can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

I conclude with a personal note: this recipe for oven-baked chicken drumsticks with mushrooms is one of my favorites to prepare on Sunday evenings when the family gathers around the table. The delicious aromas that spread throughout the house create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I hope you enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and the tasty meal you will prepare! Enjoy your meal!