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### **Step-by-Step Instructions for Spicy Garlic-Lime Baked Chicken Drumsticks**
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. **Spicy Garlic-Lime Baked Chicken Drumsticks** are incredibly simple to prepare, and the beauty of this dish lies in its ability to pack a punch of flavor without requiring a lot of effort. Here’s how to make it:
#### **Step 1: Prep the Chicken Drumsticks**
Start by washing the chicken drumsticks thoroughly and patting them dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken is essential because it allows the marinade to adhere better to the skin and helps the chicken crisp up when baking.
Place the chicken drumsticks in a large mixing bowl or resealable plastic bag. If you’re using a bowl, ensure that the bowl is large enough to toss the drumsticks with the marinade. If using a bag, you can seal it tightly and shake the chicken to ensure the marinade covers every inch.
#### **Step 2: Prepare the Marinade**
In a small mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, lime juice, chili powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, cumin, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Add the olive oil and whisk the mixture until it is well combined.
Taste the marinade and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer more heat, you can add extra cayenne pepper or chili powder. If you like it sweeter, add a touch more brown sugar. The balance of heat, sweetness, and tang should be to your liking.
#### **Step 3: Marinate the Chicken**
Pour the marinade over the chicken drumsticks and ensure that each piece is fully coated with the marinade. If using a bowl, use tongs or your hands to toss the drumsticks in the marinade. If using a resealable bag, seal the bag and shake it gently to coat the chicken.
For the best results, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 1-2 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavor it will absorb. If you’re in a rush, 30 minutes will still yield tasty results, but marinating longer will help the spices penetrate the meat.
#### **Step 4: Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures that the chicken will cook quickly and get crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. If you prefer a different level of crispiness, you can adjust the temperature, but 400°F is the sweet spot for baking chicken drumsticks.
#### **Step 5: Bake the Chicken**
Once the chicken has marinated, transfer the drumsticks to a lined or greased baking sheet. Arrange them in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam instead of bake, which will affect the texture.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). During the baking process, you can flip the drumsticks halfway through to ensure even cooking and crispness. If you want extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 3-4 minutes of baking.
#### **Step 6: Garnish and Serve**
Once the chicken is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
Garnish the drumsticks with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for added freshness. The tangy lime juice and vibrant cilantro complement the spicy and savory chicken, making every bite more delightful.
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### **Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Spicy Garlic-Lime Baked Chicken Drumsticks**
To make sure your **Spicy Garlic-Lime Baked Chicken Drumsticks** turn out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips and tricks to keep in mind:
1. **Use Bone-in, Skin-on Drumsticks**: The skin helps keep the chicken juicy while baking, and the bones provide more flavor. Bone-in, skin-on drumsticks are ideal for this recipe because they hold up well to the baking process and develop a crispy exterior.
2. **Marinate for Longer**: If time allows, marinate the chicken for 2-4 hours for deeper flavor penetration. If you’re short on time, 30 minutes will still yield great results.
3. **Check the Internal Temperature**: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken has reached the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked without being dry.
4. **Add More Heat**: If you prefer a spicier dish, don’t hesitate to increase the amount of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or even add some hot sauce to the marinade.
5. **Serve with a Side**: Pair the chicken drumsticks with a refreshing salad, rice, or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal.
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### **Why You’ll Love Spicy Garlic-Lime Baked Chicken Drumsticks**
This recipe is a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors that will excite your taste buds. The combination of garlic, lime, and chili creates a vibrant, bold flavor profile that takes the humble chicken drumstick to the next level. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a barbecue, or simply enjoying a delicious meal on a weeknight, these drumsticks are guaranteed to impress.
The best part is that the recipe is easy to make, doesn’t require any special equipment, and can be customized to suit your taste. You can add extra spices, adjust the level of heat, or even marinate the chicken overnight for a more intense flavor.
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### **Conclusion**
**Spicy Garlic-Lime Baked Chicken Drumsticks** are the perfect combination of bold flavors, juicy chicken, and crispy skin. Whether you’re preparing a quick family meal or impressing guests at a dinner party, this dish is sure to stand out. The balance of heat from the cayenne and chili powder, the tanginess of the lime, and the savory depth of garlic makes for an unforgettable culinary experience.
So, preheat your oven, grab some chicken drumsticks, and start marinating! With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a flavorful, satisfying meal that brings the heat and excitement of bold spices right into your kitchen.
