Oven-baked chicken drumsticks with sesame and breadcrumbs

Chicken drumsticks with sesame and breadcrumbs baked in the oven

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Marinating time: 3-4 hours
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total: 4-5 hours (including marinating)
Number of servings: 4

Introduction

Today, I invite you to discover a delicious and simple recipe, perfect for a family dinner or a lunch with friends: chicken drumsticks with sesame and breadcrumbs baked in the oven. This dish combines the crunchy texture of breadcrumbs and sesame seeds with the juiciness of chicken, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. The origins of this recipe can be found in culinary traditions that emphasize slow and flavorful cooking, and today, we will transform it into a true culinary masterpiece.

Necessary ingredients

- 500 g chicken drumsticks
- 300 g sesame
- 300 g breadcrumbs
- 6 eggs
- 1 liter of beer (choose a light beer for a more pleasant taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 5-6 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- Granulated spices (a mix of your favorite spices, such as paprika, oregano, thyme)

Preparing the marinade

1. Wash and prepare the drumsticks: Start by washing the chicken drumsticks well under cold running water. Then, using a sharp knife, make a few shallow cuts on their surface. These cuts will help the marinade penetrate the meat better.

2. Marinating: In a large bowl, combine the beer, salt, pepper, crushed garlic, rosemary, and granulated spices. Mix well to homogenize the ingredients. Add the drumsticks to the marinade, ensuring they are completely covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours. If you have time, overnight marinating will intensify the flavors.

Preparing the drumsticks for the oven

3. Preparing the ingredients for breading: After the drumsticks have marinated, prepare the other ingredients. Beat the 6 eggs in a deep bowl until they become homogeneous. In two other bowls, place the breadcrumbs and sesame, each in a separate bowl.

4. Breading the drumsticks: Remove the drumsticks from the marinade and let them drain excess liquid. Start the breading process: dip each drumstick in the beaten egg, then in breadcrumbs, then again in egg, and finally in sesame. This double layer will ensure a crunchy and delicious crust.

Baking in the oven

5. Preparing the baking tray: Preheat the oven to 170°C. Grease a baking tray with oil, ensuring it is well covered to prevent the drumsticks from sticking.

6. Arranging the drumsticks: Place the breaded drumsticks in the tray, leaving enough space between them to allow air circulation. This will contribute to even baking.

7. Baking: Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 40-50 minutes. It is important to turn the drumsticks halfway through the baking time to achieve even browning. About 20 minutes before they are done, drizzle the drumsticks with beer. This step will add extra flavor and keep the meat juicy.

Serving and variations

8. Serving: Once the drumsticks are browned and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them hot, alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables. A side of baked potatoes or mashed potatoes is also an excellent choice.

9. Variations: Experiment with different spices in the marinade or add fresh herbs to the breadcrumb crust. You can also replace chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier option.

Tips and useful advice

- Choose your favorite beer, as its flavor will influence the aroma of the final dish.
- If you want a stronger taste, add a few drops of Worcestershire sauce to the marinade.
- Make sure the drumsticks are well dried before dipping them in egg and breadcrumbs to achieve a crispy crust.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This dish contains approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil used and the cooking method. Chicken drumsticks are an excellent source of protein, while sesame provides essential fatty acids and important minerals such as calcium and magnesium.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, this recipe also works with turkey or even fish, but the baking time may vary.

- How can I store leftover drumsticks?
Store the drumsticks in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.

- What drinks pair well with this dish?
A cold beer is the obvious choice, but a dry white wine or a fresh fruit cocktail could also perfectly complement the flavors.

These chicken drumsticks with sesame and breadcrumbs baked in the oven are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them a wonderful choice for any occasion. I hope you enjoy this recipe and make it part of your family culinary traditions. Enjoy your meal!