Elevate your next meal with this irresistible recipe for smoky bacon-wrapped chicken drumsticks. Each drumstick is lovingly wrapped in crispy bacon and coated with a rich BBQ glaze that brings out the savory flavors of the chicken. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, preparing a family dinner, or just craving something indulgent, these drumsticks will deliver a satisfying crunch and a smoky, savory taste that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 2 lb chicken drumsticks (approximately 1 kg)
- 0.44 lb fresh or smoked bacon (about 200 grams), thinly sliced
- 3-4 tablespoons BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Smoked paprika to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Rinse the chicken drumsticks under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season the drumsticks with salt, smoked paprika, and minced garlic. Rub the seasonings into the chicken to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Wrap the Drumsticks:
- Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each drumstick, starting from the top and working your way down. Ensure the bacon covers as much of the chicken as possible.
- Secure the bacon in place with toothpicks if needed.
- Cook the Drumsticks:
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the bacon-wrapped drumsticks and sear them on all sides until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
- Glaze with BBQ Sauce:
- Remove the skillet from the oven and brush each drumstick generously with BBQ sauce.
- Return the drumsticks to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the BBQ sauce to caramelize and create a sticky glaze.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the drumsticks are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Serve the drumsticks hot, with extra BBQ sauce on the side if desired.
Conclusion:
These smoky bacon-wrapped chicken drumsticks are the perfect blend of crispy, juicy, and flavorful. The combination of savory bacon, tender chicken, and tangy BBQ glaze makes them an instant hit for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them as part of a meal or serving them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these drumsticks are sure to be devoured in no time. Enjoy the smoky, savory goodness with each bite!