Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure with these irresistible baked curried chicken drumsticks! Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with aromatic Indian-inspired spices that will transport your senses straight to a vibrant street market. Whether you're a busy home cook or a flavor enthusiast, this recipe promises to deliver maximum taste with minimal effort, making it the perfect weeknight meal that looks and tastes like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning adhere better and ensures crispy skin.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine curry powder, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together to create a uniform marinade.
- Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and thoroughly coat each piece with the spice mixture, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
- Arrange the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow proper heat circulation.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, turning the drumsticks halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. Ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the drumstick for safe consumption.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving. Pair with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry thoroughly - this is the secret to achieving that crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in all the delicious flavors.
- Don't be afraid to adjust the curry powder to your spice preference. For a milder version, use less; for heat lovers, add a pinch of cayenne.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked. The 165°F (74°C) internal temperature is your guarantee of safe and juicy meat.
- For extra flavor, marinate the drumsticks in the spice mixture for 2-4 hours before cooking if you have the time.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- For a complete meal, pair with coconut rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad to complement the rich, spicy flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 140mg
