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Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Chicken Drumsticks
Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil, ensuring they are coated evenly. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the drumsticks, tossing them to coat thoroughly. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer on one of the prepared baking sheets.
3. Prepare the Zucchini Parmesan Sticks
In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Dip each zucchini stick into the egg, ensuring it is fully coated, and then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until well-coated. Place the coated zucchini sticks in a single layer on the second baking sheet. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the zucchini sticks for an extra touch of crispness.
4. Bake the Chicken and Zucchini
Place both baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake the chicken drumsticks for about 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they are crispy on all sides. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
At the same time, bake the zucchini sticks for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them once halfway through. They should be golden and crispy on the outside while tender on the inside.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken drumsticks are golden brown and the zucchini sticks are crispy, remove them from the oven. Serve the chicken and zucchini sticks on a platter and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or a tangy garlic aioli.
Why This Recipe Works
Crispy Chicken Drumsticks
The key to achieving crispy chicken drumsticks in the oven lies in the seasoning and cooking method. Coating the drumsticks in olive oil and seasoning them well before baking ensures a crispy, flavorful skin without the need for deep frying. Baking them at a high temperature also helps render the fat, which results in a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Zucchini Parmesan Sticks
Zucchini is naturally high in water content, so it can be tricky to achieve a crispy texture when baking. But by coating the zucchini sticks in breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese, you create a crunchy outer layer that contrasts perfectly with the tender zucchini inside. Drizzling olive oil over the zucchini sticks helps them brown and crisp up, ensuring they’re just as satisfying as traditional fries.
Tips for Success
- For Extra Crispy Chicken: You can bake the drumsticks on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, helping it cook more evenly and become even crispier.
- Zucchini Alternatives: If you don’t have zucchini, you can use other vegetables like eggplant or sweet potato for the parmesan sticks.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with the seasoning for the chicken and zucchini. Add a little cayenne pepper to the chicken for some heat or swap the basil for dried oregano for a different flavor profile.
- Make it a Meal: Serve these crispy chicken drumsticks and zucchini sticks with a simple side salad or some roasted potatoes to make the meal even more satisfying.
Conclusion
Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Zucchini Parmesan Sticks is a winning combination that brings together crispy, juicy chicken and a light, cheesy vegetable side. It’s the perfect balance of indulgent and healthy, making it an ideal meal for families or anyone who loves delicious food without the guilt. Quick, easy, and full of flavor, this recipe is sure to become a go-to for busy weeknights or weekend dinners. Try it today and enjoy the crispy, savory goodness!
What’s your favorite way to enjoy chicken drumsticks? Let us know if you try this recipe, and feel free to share any twists you add! 😊
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