Chicken drumsticks stuffed with ham and garlic

Chicken drumsticks stuffed with ham and garlic, a recipe that combines rich flavors and delicious textures to create an irresistible dish. This recipe, which may seem simple, loves to surprise with its taste and presentation, transforming an ordinary meal into an unforgettable feast. Let's discover together how to prepare them step by step!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 6 chicken drumsticks
- A few pieces of stuffed ham
- 5-6 garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon of chicken-flavored Delikat
- 1 tablespoon of mustard
- Spices: pepper, sweet paprika, thyme
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper
- 250 ml of water

Recipe story:
Chicken drumsticks are a traditional dish, widespread in many cultures, often associated with family meals and special occasions. They are appreciated not only for their taste but also for their versatility in the kitchen. It is no wonder that we have fallen in love with this recipe, which combines succulent meat with rich flavors of ham and garlic, perfect for a comforting dinner.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the drumsticks: Start by cleaning the chicken drumsticks. Wash them well under cold water to remove any feathers or fluff. Use a paper towel to dry them well. It is important that they are dry to allow the spices to adhere to the meat.

2. Stuffing the drumsticks: Pulling the skin off the drumsticks is an essential step. Use your fingers to pull the skin towards the narrow end of the drumstick, creating a pocket. Score the meat all around to allow the ham and garlic filling to integrate well. Cut a few thin slices of ham and chop some garlic cloves into smaller pieces.

3. Fill the drumsticks: Insert the pieces of ham and garlic into the formed pockets, then pull the skin back in place. This step not only adds flavor but also keeps the meat juicy during cooking.

4. Dredging in flour: In a bowl, mix the flour with a little pepper, sweet paprika, thyme, and Delikat. These spices will coat the drumsticks in a delicious crust. Dredge each drumstick in this mixture, coating them evenly.

5. Preparing the mustard mixture: In a small bowl, combine the mustard with the olive oil. This mixture will add a tangy note and help caramelize the drumsticks in the oven.

6. Placing in the baking dish: Take a baking dish and arrange the stuffed drumsticks. Spread the remaining ham and garlic on top. Cut the red bell pepper into large pieces and add it to the dish. This will not only add color but also infuse the dish with a sweet aroma.

7. Adding water: Pour a cup of water into the baking dish, so the drumsticks cook in steam, keeping them juicy.

8. Baking: Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 160-170°C for about 2 hours. Check occasionally if more water is needed to avoid drying out the meat.

Serving: Once the drumsticks are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the meat even more tender. You can serve the drumsticks with various side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. I chose to serve them with boiled pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.

Helpful tips:

- If you want a more intense flavor, let the drumsticks marinate in mustard and spices a few hours before cooking.
- Experiment with different types of ham (e.g., smoked ham or prosciutto) to add a unique touch to your recipe.
- You can also add some olives or mushrooms to the baking dish for extra flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other parts of the chicken? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using chicken breast or thighs, but the cooking time will vary.
2. Is salt necessary? No additional salt is needed, as Delikat contains enough salt.
3. Can I prepare the recipe in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the drumsticks a day ahead and keep them in the fridge until cooking.

Nutritional benefits: Chicken drumsticks are an excellent source of protein, contributing to muscle development. Garlic is known for its antioxidant properties and heart health benefits. This recipe has a moderate calorie content, being healthier than many fried dishes.

These ham and garlic stuffed chicken drumsticks will surely become your favorite in the kitchen. A simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion! I invite you to try it and share your impressions!

 Ingredients: 6 chicken drumsticks, a few pieces of smoked bacon, cloves of garlic, 1 tablespoon chicken-flavored seasoning, 1 tablespoon mustard, spices - pepper, sweet paprika, thyme, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 red bell pepper

 Tags:  baked chicken thighs