Garlic-Infused Broiled Chicken Drumsticks: Crispy, Juicy Perfection
Nutritional value per serving
Calories350kcal
Carbs2gram
Fat22gram
Protein28gram
Ingredients
- Chicken drumsticks6 pieces
- Garlic cloves (fresh, minced)4 pieces
- Olive oil (extra virgin preferred)2 tbsp
- Salt (preferably sea salt)1 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper0.5 tsp
- Paprika (optional for extra flavor)1 tsp
- Dried oregano or thyme (optional)1 tsp
This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you to broil delicious and juicy chicken drumsticks with a mouthwatering garlic flavor. Using common ingredients and simple kitchen tools, you'll have a perfectly crispy outside and tender, safe-to-eat inside chicken in about 35 minutes. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $8 USD / 7€ / £6 / ₹600. Each serving provides about 350 kcal, making it suitable for a balanced diet; you can pair it with vegetables or salads. The recipe is beginner-friendly, medium complexity, and ensures food safety with recommended internal temperatures. Get ready for a flavorful meal your whole family will love!
Preparation instructions
Prepare the marinade
1In a medium bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried herbs. Mixing these ingredients will infuse the chicken with rich flavors and help it brown nicely during broiling. This step takes about 5 minutes.
Coat the chicken drumsticks
2Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and rub them thoroughly with the marinade. Make sure each drumstick is evenly coated with garlic and oil. This not only seasons the drumsticks but keeps them moist during cooking. Allow to marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature if time permits.
Preheat the broiler and prepare the pan
3Set your oven to broil and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. Arranging drumsticks on a rack allows heat to circulate, resulting in crispier skin.
Arrange and broil the drumsticks
4Place the marinated drumsticks on the wire rack, spacing them evenly. Position the baking sheet so the drumsticks are about 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) from the broiler heating element. Broil for 15 minutes initially, watching closely to prevent burning. Cooking times can vary depending on your oven.
Flip the drumsticks and continue cooking
5Using tongs, carefully turn each drumstick over to ensure even cooking and browning. Broil for an additional 10-15 minutes until the skin is crisp and golden brown.
Check the internal temperature for safety
6Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a drumstick, avoiding bone contact. The chicken is safely cooked when the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). If needed, broil for a few more minutes to reach this temperature.
Rest the chicken
7Once cooked, transfer the drumsticks to a clean platter and cover loosely with foil. Let them rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.
Cooking Tips
1Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; pre-minced garlic can be used in a pinch but is less vibrant.
2Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before marinating to achieve crispier skin.
3Avoid cross-contamination by washing hands and utensils thoroughly after handling raw chicken.
4If you don’t have a wire rack, place the drumsticks directly on foil but flip them more frequently for even crisping.
5Feel free to brush the drumsticks with the marinade halfway through broiling for extra moisture and flavor.
Equipment needed
- Oven with broiler setting
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Wire rack (fits baking sheet)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Meat thermometer
- Tongs
- Knife and cutting board (for mincing garlic)
Shopping List
- [ ] Chicken drumsticks (6 pieces) – ~$5.50; choose fresh, plump drumsticks with no bruising or off-smells.
- [ ] Fresh garlic (1 bulb) – ~$0.50; look for firm, unblemished cloves.
- [ ] Olive oil (small bottle) – ~$3.00; extra virgin is best for flavor.
- [ ] Salt (sea or kosher) – ~$1.00; if you don't have any.
- [ ] Black pepper (ground or whole) – ~$1.50.
- [ ] Paprika (optional) – ~$1.00; sweet or smoked variety adds nice flavor.
- [ ] Dried oregano or thyme (optional) – ~$1.00; choose according to flavor preference.
Total approximate cost: $8 USD
Buying small amounts of spices at a supermarket or using what you have on hand can reduce costs. Fresh garlic is inexpensive and adds a big flavor boost.
FAQ
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight in the refrigerator will deepen the garlic flavor and tenderize the chicken even more. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to cook.
What if I don’t have a broiler?
You can roast the drumsticks in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
How do I ensure the chicken is safe to eat?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature has reached at least 74°C (165°F). Also, make sure the juices run clear, not pink.
Can I use this recipe for other chicken parts?
Yes, this marinade and method work well for chicken thighs or wings. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I avoid dry chicken?
Don’t overcook the drumsticks; watch closely near the end of cooking and use a thermometer. Resting after broiling helps keep the meat juicy.