I love cooking and experimenting with new recipes. One of my recent discoveries is a quick and easy method to cook drumsticks in the microwave. Yes, you read that right! I was skeptical at first too, but I was pleasantly surprised at how delicious and moist the chicken turned out. So, if you’re looking for a fuss-free way to cook drumsticks, keep on reading.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Drumsticks
First and foremost, you’ll need some drumsticks. Depending on your preference, you can use fresh or frozen drumsticks. Just make sure they are thawed properly if you’re using frozen ones.
– Seasoning
To add flavor to your drumsticks, you can use a variety of seasonings. Some popular options include garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and spices to suit your taste buds.
– Cooking Spray or Olive Oil
To prevent the drumsticks from sticking to the microwave-safe dish, you’ll need some cooking spray or olive oil. This step will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly without making a mess.
Preparation Steps
Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start preparing the drumsticks for cooking.
– Pat Dry the Drumsticks
Before seasoning the drumsticks, make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel. This step eliminates any excess moisture, resulting in crispier skin.
– Season the Drumsticks
Generously season the drumsticks with your chosen spices. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty; massage the seasonings into the chicken to enhance the flavor. Ensure that all sides of the drumsticks are coated evenly.
– Grease the Microwave-Safe Dish
To prevent sticking, lightly grease a microwave-safe dish with cooking spray or olive oil. This step is crucial to avoid any mishaps when cooking the drumsticks.
Microwaving the Drumsticks
Now comes the exciting part – cooking the drumsticks in the microwave. Follow these steps:
– Arrange the Drumsticks
Place the seasoned drumsticks in a single layer on the greased microwave-safe dish. Ensure there is enough space between each drumstick to allow for even cooking.
– Cover the Dish
Using a microwave-safe cover or microwave-safe plastic wrap, loosely cover the dish. This step helps to retain the moisture and prevent any splatters inside your microwave.
– Set the Cooking Time
The cooking time will vary depending on the wattage of your microwave. As a general guideline, microwave fresh drumsticks for about 8-10 minutes on high power. If you’re using frozen drumsticks, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
– Rotate the Drumsticks
After the initial cooking time, carefully remove the dish from the microwave and flip the drumsticks over. This step ensures even cooking and helps to achieve crispy skin on all sides.
– Cook for Additional Time
Return the dish to the microwave and continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes on high power. Be sure to keep an eye on the drumsticks as cooking times can vary.
– Check for Doneness
To ensure the drumsticks are fully cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. The internal temperature should be at least 165°F (74°C). If the temperature hasn’t been reached, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Once your drumsticks are perfectly cooked, it’s time to dig in! Here are some serving suggestions that will complement your deliciously juicy chicken:
– Side Dishes
Pair your drumsticks with some classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
– Dipping Sauces
For added flavor, serve your drumsticks with your favorite dipping sauces. Popular options include barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.
– Party Pleaser
If you’re hosting a party or a family gathering, the microwave drumsticks can be a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Serve them with toothpicks and a selection of dipping sauces for finger-licking goodness.
Final Thoughts
Who would have thought that you could cook drumsticks in the microwave and still achieve juicy, tender, and flavorful chicken? This quick and easy method is a game-changer for those busy weeknights when you don’t have much time to spend in the kitchen.
So, the next time you’re craving drumsticks but want to skip the oven or grill, give this microwave method a try. With a little bit of seasoning and some patience, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Happy cooking!