If you are craving a delightful dinner that combines crispy, golden breading with juicy, tender chicken, then you are in for a treat! This Breaded Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. The magic happens with a luscious Dijon-mayo garlic coating that keeps the chicken moist, paired with seasoned Italian bread crumbs for that irresistible crunch. Baking instead of frying makes it healthier without sacrificing any flavor or texture, making this recipe a total winner in my book.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays an essential role in building the flavor, texture, and color of your breaded baked chicken drumsticks. From the tangy mustard sauce to the crunchy breadcrumbs, every component works together to create comfort food perfection.
- 4-4.5 lbs. chicken drumsticks: The star of the dish, best fresh and patted dry to ensure the coating sticks well.
- Sea Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning that enhances the natural chicken flavor and balances the bold breading.
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard: Adds tanginess and helps the breading adhere; Grey Poupon is my personal favorite for depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup real mayo or Vegenaise: Brings creaminess and moisture to the coating, locking in juiciness during baking.
- 4 garlic cloves (pressed): Garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth that elevates every bite.
- 2 cups seasoned Italian-style bread crumbs: The crunchy exterior that bakes to golden perfection; Progresso brand is a reliable choice.
How to Make Breaded Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350ËšF. This steady moderate heat is key to cooking the drumsticks evenly while crisping the breading just right. To make cleanup a breeze, line your baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
Step 2: Clean and Season Chicken
Rinse the drumsticks under cold water and then pat them thoroughly dry using paper towels. Drying the chicken is crucial to help the breading stick and to prevent sogginess. Season the drumsticks generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides, as this simple seasoning forms a foundational layer of flavor.
Step 3: Make the Mustard-Garlic Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, mayo (or Vegenaise), and the pressed garlic cloves until smooth and creamy. This mixture not only flavors the chicken but also acts as a sticky base for the bread crumbs to cling to during baking.
Step 4: Prep Your Breading Station
Pour the Italian-style breadcrumbs into a wide, shallow bowl or dish. This allows you to roll or press each drumstick evenly into the coating, ensuring a crisp, uniform crust.
Step 5: Coat the Drumsticks
Using a brush or your hands, generously spread the mustard-garlic mixture over every side of the drumsticks. Then, roll each piece in the bread crumbs twice to build up a thick, crunchy layer. This double coating is what makes this Breaded Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe so addictive!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the breaded drumsticks on your prepared baking sheet without crowding them. Give them space to crisp up properly on the bottom. For extra crispness, place them on a wire rack set inside a rimmed cookie sheet so heat circulates all around. Bake at 350˚F for about 50-60 minutes, making sure the chicken is fully cooked through. To get that golden, crispy skin edge, pop the drumsticks under the broiler for 3 minutes or until you achieve your ideal crunch — just be careful not to burn them!
How to Serve Breaded Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil add a lovely burst of color and freshness, cutting through the richness of the breaded chicken. A simple squeeze of lemon juice right before serving also brings brightness and a subtle tang that complements the crispy coating beautifully.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with classic sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. For a fun twist, try serving it alongside a tangy coleslaw or some buttery corn on the cob to make a complete and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your dinner feel extra special by arranging the drumsticks on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small bowls of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy aioli. Alternatively, try stacking them on a platter with colorful grilled vegetables or even on top of a bed of fluffy rice to soak up any delicious juices.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover breaded baked chicken drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool them completely before sealing to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these drumsticks freeze well. Wrap them tightly in foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper if stacking. They will keep up to 2 months and still retain great taste and texture when reheated.
Reheating
To reheat and retain that crispy coating, warm your chicken in a 350ËšF oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving unless you prefer a softer coating, as the oven method keeps the crunch alive and the chicken juicy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chicken cuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken drumsticks are fantastic because of their size and flavor, you can also use chicken thighs or even wings. Just adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure they cook through.
Is it okay to use regular mayonnaise instead of Vegenaise?
Yes, regular mayonnaise works perfectly and adds richness. Vegenaise is just a great option if you want a dairy-free or vegan alternative in the sauce mixture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the Italian-style bread crumbs for gluten-free bread crumbs. Many brands have great seasoned options that will maintain the delicious taste and crunch.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can coat the chicken drumsticks with the mustard mixture and bread crumbs a few hours before baking; just cover and refrigerate until ready to bake for maximum freshness.
What if I want my chicken extra crispy?
For extra crispiness, bake on a wire rack and broil at the end as suggested. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan to allow hot air to circulate fully around each piece.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to try this Breaded Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe the next time you want a comforting, crispy dish that’s easy to make and incredibly tasty. It’s a recipe that never fails to impress and become a family favorite. Happy cooking and bon appétit!
