How to Cook Chicken Drumsticks in the Oven

Cooking chicken drumsticks in the oven is a healthy method of preparation, in contrast to deep frying, which adds unnecessary fat and calories. Removing the skin prior to cooking further reduces the fat content because almost all fat in chicken comes from the skin. This recipe yields approximately 8 servings of oven-prepared chicken drumsticks.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Baking sheet Parchment paper 1 stick of butter Saucepan Shallow dish 1¾ cups of dry bread crumbs Large plate 16 chicken drumsticks Kosher salt Ground black pepper Sharp knife Airtight container

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and cover a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat and pour it into a shallow dish. Spread the bread crumbs across a large plate.

2. Remove the skin from each drumstick by making a small incision that will loosen the skin. Grasp one end of the skin near the cut and pull firmly to remove the skin completely.

3. Coat each of the chicken drumsticks with the butter and roll in the bread crumbs. Place the drumsticks onto the baking sheet in a single layer and season lightly with salt and pepper.

4. Place the baking sheet into the oven and bake the chicken drumsticks for 50-60 minutes or until brown. When pierced with a knife, the drumstick should exude clear liquid.

5. Remove the chicken from the oven and serve immediately or seal in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Serve cold with a dipping sauce.

Tips & Warnings

• Panko bread crumbs may be used instead of dry bread crumbs. They are made in Japan and are often used to bake chicken because of their superior flavor and crunch. They can be found at local specialty food stores and some well-stocked supermarkets. The skin may be left on the drumsticks if the extra fat is of no concern or extra flavor is desired.
• If the liquid excreted from the chicken when pierced is red, cook for 5-10 more minutes and check again. Never eat chicken drumsticks that are not fully cooked to avoid food poisoning.

References

• Book: Not Your Mother's Weeknight Cooking: Quick and Easy Wholesome Homemade Dinners; Beth Hensperger; 2008

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