Breaded Chicken Drumsticks
Looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than these mouthwatering Breaded Chicken Drumsticks. Perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these drumsticks are not just a treat for your taste buds but also a fun dish to make. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a backyard barbecue, these drumsticks will steal the show. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Perfectly crispy texture thanks to the panko breadcrumbs.
- Flavorful seasoning that elevates the chicken to new heights.
- Versatile dish that can be served with various sides.
- Great for meal prep and leftovers.
The Essentials
- 8 chicken drumsticks: The star of the show, juicy and tender.
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the egg mixture adhere to the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: Adds a lovely earthy flavor.
- 3 large eggs, beaten: The binding agent in our breading process.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: For that extra crunch and texture.
- 2 teaspoons dried basil: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A must for that aromatic taste.
- 3/4 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic wonderfully.
- 1 1/4 teaspoons smoked paprika: Adds depth and a smoky essence.
- 1 teaspoon table salt: Essential for seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: A touch of heat.
- Olive oil cooking spray: For a golden and crispy finish.
Appliances & Accessories
- Baking sheet: A sturdy surface for roasting the drumsticks.
- Mixing bowls: For combining the flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- Whisk: To beat the eggs and mix the flour with spices.
- Cooking spray: For an even coat on the drumsticks.
- Meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection.
From Start to Finish: Breaded Chicken Drumsticks
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that irresistible crispy coating.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and dried oregano. In the second bowl, beat the three large eggs until well mixed. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Drumsticks
Take each chicken drumstick and first dip it into the flour mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, roll the drumstick in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks well. Place the coated drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Spray and Bake
Once all the drumsticks are coated, spray them lightly with olive oil cooking spray. This helps to achieve that golden-brown finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (75°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the drumstick.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauces or side dishes, and enjoy the deliciousness of your Breaded Chicken Drumsticks!
Adaptations for Special Diets
- Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
- Low-carb: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a low-carb option.
- Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick.
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for unique flavor profiles.
Chef’s Rationale
When it comes to Breaded Chicken Drumsticks, the key lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The crispy panko breadcrumbs provide a delightful crunch, while the mixture of herbs and spices infuses the chicken with irresistible flavors. Cooking at a high temperature ensures that the coating becomes crispy without drying out the meat. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for various adaptations to cater to dietary preferences and flavor profiles.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
These Breaded Chicken Drumsticks are perfect for meal prep! Once cooked, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also freeze the cooked drumsticks for up to 3 months; just remember to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Breaded Chicken Drumsticks FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What can I serve with breaded chicken drumsticks?
These drumsticks pair wonderfully with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For a delightful dipping experience, try serving them with Honey Garlic Chicken sauce or your favorite BBQ sauce.
Can I make these drumsticks in an air fryer?
Yes! To make Breaded Chicken Drumsticks in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the drumsticks for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced with a knife.
Healthy-ish Favorites
- Panko Chicken – A lighter take on classic fried chicken.
- Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan – Crispy, cheesy, and perfectly baked.
- Honey Garlic Chicken – Sweet and savory chicken that’s easy to make.
Hungry for More?
If you loved these Breaded Chicken Drumsticks, be sure to check out our other delicious recipes. From comforting casseroles to fresh salads, there’s something for everyone. Happy cooking!
Breaded Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to achieve that crispy coating.
- Step 2: Prepare a breading station with three shallow bowls: combine flour and oregano, beat eggs in the second, and mix panko breadcrumbs with spices in the third.
- Step 3: Coat each drumstick in flour, then eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture. Place on the baking sheet.
- Step 4: Spray the drumsticks with olive oil cooking spray and bake for 35-40 minutes until cooked through and crispy, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Step 5: Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, and serve with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- Add cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
