Chicken drumsticks with broccoli

Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Broccoli – A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 75 minutes
Number of servings: 10

Who doesn’t love the aroma of oven-baked chicken drumsticks, crispy and juicy? This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also extremely satisfying, making it perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Additionally, pairing the drumsticks with broccoli, a superfood packed with vitamins, makes this dish healthy and tasty.

Necessary ingredients:

For the drumsticks:
- 10 chicken drumsticks (about 1 kg)
- 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 20 ml olive oil (for a refined taste)
- 200 ml red wine (optional, but recommended for added flavor)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt, pepper, and thyme (a pinch of each)

For the broccoli:
- 500 g broccoli, broken into florets
- 20 ml lemon juice (for a fresh dressing)
- 50 ml olive oil (for dressing)
- Salt (a pinch)

Preparing the chicken drumsticks:

1. Preparing the drumsticks:
Start by washing the chicken drumsticks well. Remove any unhealthy parts or excess fat. Season them with salt, pepper, and thyme, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. These spices will not only add flavor but also a pleasant aroma to your dish.

2. Placing in the baking tray:
Arrange the seasoned drumsticks in a baking tray. Add the finely chopped garlic and the bay leaf among them. These will infuse the meat with savory flavors during baking.

3. Adding liquids:
Drizzle the meat with 20 ml of olive oil and 200 ml of red wine. The wine will not only add a deep flavor to the drumsticks but also help tenderize the meat. If you prefer a non-alcoholic dish, you can replace the wine with chicken broth.

4. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Place the tray in the oven and let the drumsticks bake for about an hour. Halfway through, turn the drumsticks to brown them evenly. This step is essential for achieving a perfect crust.

Preparing the broccoli:

1. Breaking and washing the broccoli:
While the drumsticks are baking, break and wash the broccoli into small florets. Choose florets of uniform size to ensure even cooking.

2. Boiling:
In a large pot, add salted water and bring to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the broccoli florets and let them boil for 3-5 minutes. The goal is to keep their crunchy texture and vibrant color.

3. Cooling:
After boiling, drain the broccoli in a colander and rinse it under cold running water. This trick will stop the cooking process and maintain the bright green color.

4. Preparing the dressing:
In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, 50 ml of olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and drizzle the dressing over the broccoli. Toss to ensure all florets are evenly coated.

Serving the dish:

Once the drumsticks are cooked, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This step will help the juices redistribute, making the chicken even juicier. Serve the drumsticks alongside the broccoli with dressing, and for added flavor, you can add fresh lemon slices or some toasted nuts on top.

Suggestions and variations:

- Spice variations: You can experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, to customize the flavor of the dish.
- Adding vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to the tray with the chicken drumsticks for a more colorful and nutritious dish.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. You can also accompany the meal with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Nutritional benefits:

Chicken drumsticks are an excellent source of protein, and broccoli is a superfood rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. This meal is not only delicious but also supports a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted with chicken thighs or even turkey.
- How can I store leftovers? You can keep the drumsticks and broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.
- Is this recipe suitable for a holiday meal? Absolutely! Its appearance and taste make it ideal for special occasions.

Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe for oven-baked chicken drumsticks with broccoli is easy to make and extremely satisfying. Don’t hesitate to try it and customize it to your taste! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 10 chicken drumsticks, 500 g broccoli, pepper - a pinch, salt - a pinch, thyme - a pinch, one bay leaf, 20 ml lemon juice, 50 ml olive oil, 3 cloves of garlic, 200 ml red wine

 Tags:  chicken drumsticks with broccoli chicken hammers broccoli