Oven-baked chicken drumsticks with breadcrumbs

Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Breadcrumbs - A Delicious and Crispy Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Number of Servings: 4 (approximately 15 drumsticks)

This recipe for oven-baked chicken drumsticks with breadcrumbs is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, as well as for a special occasion. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, the drumsticks become truly delicious when baked.

A Brief Story about Chicken Drumsticks
Chicken drumsticks have a long tradition in many culinary cultures, often preferred for their rich flavor and pleasant texture. Baking them offers a significant advantage over frying: reduced fat and maintained juiciness of the meat. This recipe is based on a combination of spices that add depth and flavor, transforming a simple ingredient into a culinary masterpiece.

Necessary Ingredients
- 15 chicken drumsticks
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 200 g breadcrumbs (preferably panko for a crunchier texture)
- 50 ml sunflower oil or olive oil

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Drumsticks
Start by washing the chicken drumsticks well under cold running water. Then, dry them with a paper towel to remove excess water. This step is essential for the breadcrumbs to stick well to the meat.

2. Preparing the Marinade Mixture
In a bowl, beat the egg and add the sweet paprika, Tabasco sauce, salt, basil, thyme, and oregano. Mix well until all ingredients are combined. This will be the mixture that flavors the drumsticks and helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the meat.

3. Preparing the Breadcrumbs
On a flat plate, place the breadcrumbs. If you want a crunchier texture, opt for panko breadcrumbs, which provide a lighter and crispier crust.

4. Preheating the Oven
In a baking tray, add the oil and place the tray in the preheated oven at 200°C. The oil should be hot when you add the drumsticks to achieve a perfectly crispy crust.

5. Dipping the Drumsticks in the Egg Mixture
Each drumstick will first be dipped in the egg and spice mixture, ensuring it is well coated. Then, transfer it to the plate with breadcrumbs and roll it well to coat evenly. Repeat this step for all drumsticks.

6. Baking the Drumsticks
When the oil in the tray is hot, carefully remove the tray from the oven. Place the drumsticks in the hot oil, leaving space between them to bake evenly. Bake the drumsticks for 20 minutes, then carefully turn them over and bake for another 20 minutes or until golden and crispy.

7. Serving
After the drumsticks are baked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. They are excellent alongside a side of mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or, as we chose, with a bean and potato dish that adds a pleasant contrast.

Helpful Tips
- You can experiment with different spices in the egg mixture. A teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder can add even more intense flavor.
- If you want a spicier taste, you can add more Tabasco sauce or even a bit of ground chili.
- If you want to prepare a larger portion, it is recommended to cook the drumsticks in two batches to ensure they bake evenly.
- These drumsticks are very versatile and can also be used in sandwiches or salads, adding extra flavor to your meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: approximately 300 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g

Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I make the drumsticks less fatty? You can reduce the amount of oil or bake the drumsticks without frying them in hot oil, just on a tray lined with parchment paper.
- Can I use other types of meat? This recipe works well with other cuts of meat, such as thighs or chicken breast.
- How can I store leftover drumsticks? You can store the baked drumsticks in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.

This recipe for oven-baked chicken drumsticks with breadcrumbs is not only simple but also a delicious way to bring a bit of flavor to your table. So put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and let's enjoy a dish that combines tradition with innovation! Enjoy your meal!