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Easy Almond Crusted Chicken Drumsticks – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Easy Almond Crusted Chicken Drumsticks

Ditch the takeout menu for these incredibly juicy, fall-off-the-bone chicken drumsticks, boasting a perfectly crisp, golden-brown almond crust. This is the ultimate weeknight hero – ridiculously easy, packed with flavor, and a comforting meal that makes everything feel right.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 2 serving
Calories: 405
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 5-6 chicken drumsticks, about 1.5 lbs or 680g (24 oz)
  • 1 cup (100 g / 3.5 oz) almond meal
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) paprika
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) mustard powder
  • ½ tsp curry powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) bacon fat or ghee, for greasing
  • Pro-Tips for Perfect Drumsticks
  • For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice blend for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator.
  • For an extra-crispy crust, place the drumsticks on a wire rack set inside the roasting pan. This allows hot air to circulate underneath.
  • Ensure the chicken is at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking for more even cooking.
  • To check for doneness without a thermometer, pierce the thickest part of the drumstick; the juices should run clear.

Method
 

  1. Method
  2. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  3. Grease a roasting pan or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper with your choice of bacon fat or ghee.
  4. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks completely dry with a paper towel.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the paprika, mustard powder, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
  6. Add the chicken and toss until every piece is thoroughly coated in the spice mix.
  7. Create the Almond Crust: Spread the almond meal evenly on a large plate or in a shallow dish. Press each seasoned drumstick firmly into the almond meal, rotating to ensure a thick, even coating on all sides.
  8. Arrange and Bake: Place the coated drumsticks in a single layer on your prepared roasting pan, ensuring they aren't touching. This helps them get crispy all over.
  9. Roast to Perfection: Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
  10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  11. Don't be afraid to customize the spice blend! A teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder makes a delicious addition.

Nutrition

Calories: 405kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 27gFat: 90g

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