Tender Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Perfectly Baked Chicken Drumsticks – Deliciously Simple!
These baked chicken drumsticks are incredibly tender and juicy, making them a fantastic snack for kids or a delightful accompaniment to a cold beer. Enjoy a homemade treat that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Main Ingredients- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup milk
- 1 bay leaf
Seasoning- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by thoroughly washing the chicken drumsticks under cold running water. Place the washed drumsticks in a bowl. Pour about 1 cup of milk over them and add 1 bay leaf. To help the marinade penetrate and tenderize the meat more effectively, you can score the drumsticks with a knife a few times. The longer the drumsticks soak in milk, the more tender the meat will become. Aim for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator for maximum tenderness. Remember to flip the drumsticks occasionally to ensure they are evenly coated in the milk.
Step 2
After soaking, drain the drumsticks from the milk and rinse them lightly under running water to remove any milk residue. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Ensuring the drumsticks are completely dry is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Once dry, season generously with salt and pepper, rubbing it all over the drumsticks. For even better flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the drumsticks marinate in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes.
Step 3
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet or oven-safe tray with parchment paper. Arrange the seasoned chicken drumsticks on the prepared tray, ensuring the skin side is facing up. Leave some space between each drumstick to allow for even cooking and crisping.
Step 4
Place the drumsticks in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes at 200°C (400°F). To ensure even browning and crispiness, flip the drumsticks halfway through the baking time, around the 20-minute mark. You can check for doneness by piercing the thickest part of a drumstick with a skewer or fork; if the juices run clear, they are ready. If you prefer extra crispy skin, you can increase the baking time slightly or broil for the last few minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
