Introduction
Baked chicken drumsticks are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. This recipe combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite for both casual dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a comforting meal, these drumsticks are sure to impress.
## Ingredients
– **For the Chicken:**
– 8 chicken drumsticks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– **For the Marinade:**
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
## Instructions
### Preparation
1. **Marinate the Chicken:**
– In a bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
– Add chicken drumsticks to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).
### Baking
2. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. **Prepare the Baking Dish:**
– Line a baking dish with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a rack in the dish if available.
4. **Season the Chicken:**
– Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off.
– Rub drumsticks with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
5. **Bake:**
– Place the drumsticks on the rack or directly in the baking dish.
– Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), basting with the marinade halfway through.
6. **Broil:**
– For extra crispiness, broil the drumsticks for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
### Serving
7. **Serve:**
– Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot with your choice of sides like rice, salad, or roasted vegetables.
## History
Chicken drumsticks have been a staple in various cuisines around the world. The practice of marinating and baking chicken can be traced back centuries, with different cultures adding their unique spices and flavors. This dish reflects a blend of sweet and savory tastes, common in many Asian and Western dishes.
## Benefits
– **High Protein:** Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
– **Vitamins and Minerals:** Chicken provides essential nutrients like B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium.
– **Low in Carbs:** This dish is suitable for low-carb diets, making it a healthy choice for many.
## Nutrition (per serving)
– Calories: 280
– Protein: 24g
– Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 8g
– Fiber: 0g
– Sugar: 4g
## Conclusion
Baked chicken drumsticks are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep. Enjoy this delightful dish and share it with your loved ones for a memorable meal experience!
