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**Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Zucchini Parmesan Sticks: A Perfectly Balanced Meal**
If you’re in search of a hearty yet healthy meal that’s packed with flavor, look no further than these Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks paired with Zucchini Parmesan Sticks. This dish is the ideal balance of protein and vegetables, all while being simple to prepare and bake. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a weeknight treat, these two recipes come together beautifully to create a delicious meal that everyone will love.
### Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Chicken drumsticks are a family favorite for their juicy meat and satisfying texture, but achieving that crispy, golden skin without frying can be a challenge. Thankfully, baking them at the right temperature and with the right technique results in a crispy, tender bite that is just as satisfying as the fried version—without the excess oil!
**Ingredients:**
– 8 chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp onion powder
– ½ tsp salt
– ½ tsp black pepper
– ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat your oven:** Set the oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to fully heat. A hot oven is crucial for achieving crispy skin on your drumsticks.
2. **Prepare the chicken:** Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This step is essential to help the skin crisp up during baking.
3. **Season the chicken:** Drizzle the olive oil over the drumsticks, then sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and thyme (if using). Rub the seasoning into the chicken so it’s evenly coated.
4. **Arrange the drumsticks:** Place the chicken drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. If using a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet, so the heat can circulate around the chicken, ensuring even crispiness.
5. **Bake the chicken:** Bake the drumsticks for 35–40 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when done.
6. **Serve:** Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle, keeping the meat juicy and tender.
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### Zucchini Parmesan Sticks
These Zucchini Parmesan Sticks are a wonderful way to enjoy a veggie-packed side dish with a crispy, cheesy twist. They’re a great alternative to traditional fries and make a perfect pairing with the chicken drumsticks. Lightly breaded and baked to golden perfection, they bring a satisfying crunch and savory flavor.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 medium zucchinis, cut into 3-inch sticks
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the zucchini:** Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C), the same temperature you’re using for the chicken drumsticks. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Make the breading mixture:** In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg.
3. **Coat the zucchini:** Dip each zucchini stick into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Place the coated zucchini sticks on the prepared baking sheet.
4. **Bake the zucchini:** Bake the zucchini sticks for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden and crispy. If you want them extra crispy, you can broil them for the last 2–3 minutes of baking.
5. **Serve:** Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and an added burst of freshness.
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### Bringing It All Together
These Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Zucchini Parmesan Sticks create a meal that’s flavorful, satisfying, and nutritious. The juicy chicken drumsticks with their crispy skin are perfectly complemented by the crunchy, cheesy zucchini sticks, making for a delightful and well-rounded meal. You can even serve a side of marinara sauce for dipping the zucchini sticks, adding an extra layer of flavor.
This recipe is versatile and can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Feel free to add more herbs and spices to the chicken or experiment with different cheese varieties for the zucchini sticks. It’s a meal that will appeal to kids and adults alike, and it’s healthy enough to enjoy any day of the week!
### Why You’ll Love It:
– **Crispy, golden perfection:** Both the chicken and zucchini sticks bake to perfection, offering a satisfying crunch without deep-frying.
– **Quick and easy:** With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe comes together in about an hour.
– **Balanced and nutritious:** Packed with protein and vegetables, this meal provides a wholesome, balanced option for any occasion.
So, next time you’re looking for a tasty yet healthier alternative to fried dishes, give this combination a try. Crispy Baked Chicken Drumsticks and Zucchini Parmesan Sticks will quickly become a new favorite in your meal rotation!
