Garlic Parmesan Drumsticks

$For these tasty Garlic Parmesan drumsticks, gather the following: - 2 lbs chicken drumsticks - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup olive oil - 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme) - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon salt - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) These ingredients combine to make each bite rich and flavorful. You can change the flavor of your drumsticks with these optional ingredients: - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat - 1 tablespoon lemon juice for brightness - Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for more flavor - Different cheese types such as cheddar or feta Feel free to mix and match based on what you have at home! When choosing chicken drumsticks, look for these signs: - Color: Pick drumsticks with a pink hue. Avoid any gray or dark spots. - Freshness: Smell the chicken. It should not have a strong odor. - Texture: The meat should feel firm to the touch. - Size: Choose drumsticks that are similar in size for even cooking. These tips will help you pick the best drumsticks for your meal. Enjoy the delicious results! {{ingredient_image_1}} First, gather your ingredients. You will need garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and spices. In a large bowl, add four minced garlic cloves. Next, pour in half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Add a quarter cup of olive oil, one tablespoon of dried Italian herbs, one teaspoon of onion powder, half a teaspoon of black pepper, and half a teaspoon of salt. Mix these together until you form a thick paste. This mixture will give your drumsticks an amazing flavor. Now, take your two pounds of chicken drumsticks. Place them in the bowl with the garlic Parmesan mixture. Toss them well to ensure each drumstick is fully coated. This step is key for getting that rich flavor. Once coated, arrange the drumsticks on a lined baking sheet. Make sure to space them out a bit. This helps them cook evenly and get crispy skin. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once it’s hot, place the baking sheet inside. Bake the drumsticks for 30 to 35 minutes. You want them cooked through and golden brown. For that extra crunch, switch to broil for 2 to 3 minutes at the end. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. After baking, let them rest for a few minutes. This makes the meat juicier. Finally, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Drumsticks! To get that perfect crispy skin, start with dry drumsticks. Pat them with paper towels before you coat them. This helps the oil and seasoning stick better. When you bake them, space them out on the pan. This allows hot air to flow around each piece. If you want an extra crunch, broil them for a few minutes at the end. Keep a close watch to avoid burning. To boost flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice to the garlic mix. This adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the cheese. You can also try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme will add depth. Mix and match these ideas to create your own unique taste. Ovens can vary in heat. If your oven runs hot, check the drumsticks a bit early. For slower ovens, you may need a few extra minutes. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temp. Drumsticks should reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures they are safe to eat and juicy. If you’re unsure, trust your thermometer over the clock. Pro Tips Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a robust flavor that enhances the dish. Avoid pre-minced garlic for the best taste. Pat Dry the Drumsticks: Ensuring the chicken drumsticks are dry before coating helps the mixture adhere better, resulting in a crispier skin. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Experiment with Cheese: Try using different types of cheese, like cheddar or asiago, for a unique flavor profile that suits your taste. {{image_2}} If you want a kick, add heat! Mix in 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes. This will give your drumsticks a spicy twist. The garlic and Parmesan still shine through, but the spice adds depth. For a fresh taste, swap the dried herbs with fresh ones. Use 1 tablespoon of each fresh oregano, basil, and thyme. Fresh herbs bring bright flavors. You can also try rosemary for a unique touch. Both methods work well, but they differ in texture. Baking gives a juicy inside with crispy skin. Air frying cooks faster and can make the skin even crispier. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and check after 25 minutes. After enjoying your Garlic Parmesan drumsticks, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure to let them cool down first. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you plan to eat them later, storing them properly keeps them tasty and safe. To reheat your drumsticks, use the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warm. This keeps the skin crispy. You can also use a microwave, but the skin may not stay crispy. You can freeze Garlic Parmesan drumsticks for up to three months. Place cooled drumsticks in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for a delicious meal. Yes, you can use chicken thighs. They will cook well with this recipe. Thighs have more fat, giving them a richer taste. The cooking time may change slightly. Aim for 35-40 minutes at 425°F. Always check that they reach 165°F inside. To check if drumsticks are done, look for a golden brown color. The skin should be crispy. Use a meat thermometer to check the inside. It should read 165°F. If you pierce the drumstick, the juices should run clear, not pink. These drumsticks pair well with many sides. Here are some ideas: - Roasted vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts work well. - Mashed potatoes: Creamy and buttery potatoes balance the flavors. - Caesar salad: The crisp greens add freshness. - Rice: A simple side of rice soaks up the tasty juices. Feel free to mix and match based on your taste! In this post, we explored how to make delicious garlic parmesan drumsticks. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for crispy skin. We also shared some fun variations and how to store leftovers. Remember, good cooking takes practice and care. Enjoy playing with flavors and methods. You can create tasty meals that your family will love. Happy cooking!$

Garlic Parmesan Drumsticks

Deliciously seasoned chicken drumsticks coated in garlic and Parmesan cheese, baked to perfection.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 35

Total Time 45

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken drumsticks
4 cloves garlic, minced
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
0.25 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
1 teaspoon onion powder
0.5 teaspoon black pepper
0.5 teaspoon salt
to taste fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, dried Italian herbs, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until a paste forms.
Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss them until fully coated in the garlic Parmesan mixture.
Place the coated drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced evenly apart to ensure even cooking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
For an extra crispy finish, broil the drumsticks for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Remove from the oven and let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for an added touch of color and freshness.

Notes

For extra crispiness, broil the drumsticks for a few minutes at the end.

Keyword baked, chicken, drumsticks, garlic, parmesan