Crispy Chicken Drumsticks with Cracker Crust

Craving a delightful and crispy chicken dish? Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, crispy chicken drumsticks with cracker crust are both simple to prepare and mouthwateringly flavorful. The tender chicken, combined with the distinct crunch of the cracker crust, creates a satisfying texture contrast in every bite. Fresh herbs like parsley and marjoram not only add vibrant color but infuse the chicken with aromatic notes. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a subtle nutty flavor and enhances the presentation. These drumsticks are cooked to perfection, juicy on the inside and crisp on the outside. Enjoyed by kids and adults alike, this dish is an excellent choice for family gatherings. Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Dive into the step-by-step guide to create this savory masterpiece at home.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

4 chicken drumsticks or 8 chicken legs
100g crackers
1 egg

Spices:

Salt
White pepper

Herbs:

A small bunch of parsley
A few sprigs of marjoram

Additional:

1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken drumsticks in cold water and pat them dry thoroughly.
Season: Slice each drumstick into two portions, then lightly rub each piece with salt and white pepper.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 200°C (392°F).
Crumble the Crackers: Blend the crackers in a mixer until they are coarse crumbs (not too fine), or place them in a freezer bag and crush using a rolling pin.
Chop the Herbs: Remove any thick stems from the parsley and marjoram, and then finely chop the leaves.
Mix the Crust Ingredients: Combine the crushed crackers, chopped parsley, marjoram, and sesame seeds in a bowl. Season this mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Beat the Egg: In a shallow dish, lightly beat the egg.
Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s well-coated.
Crust the Chicken: Roll the egg-coated chicken pieces in the cracker mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs.
Prepare the Baking Tray: Lightly oil a baking sheet or tray.
Arrange the Chicken: Place the coated drumsticks on the prepared tray, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
Bake the Chicken: Transfer the tray to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken at 180°C (356°F) for approximately 40 minutes, turning once or twice for even browning.
Check the Doneness: Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking that the internal temperature has reached 75°C (167°F) or that juices run clear when pierced.
Serve and Enjoy: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious crispy chicken!
Optional Garnish: Sprinkle with additional herbs or sesame seeds before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.

Tips

Substitutions: Use gluten-free crackers if catering to a gluten-sensitive diet.
Freshness: Always choose fresh herbs for maximum flavor.
Crunch Factor: For extra crispy coating, bake in an air fryer.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
Protein: 35g
Fats: 25g
Carbohydrates: 20g

Variations

Spicy: Add chili powder or paprika to the cracker mixture for a spicy kick.
Herb Swap: Substitute basil or thyme if desired.
Cheesy Crust: Mix in some grated Parmesan cheese with the cracker crumbs.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh garden salad or roasted sweet potatoes.
Garnishes: Lemon wedges or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs.
Drinks: Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or iced tea.

Best Places

Chez L'Ami Louis - Renowned for its classic French cuisine. Location: 32 Rue du Vertbois, Paris, France.
Eleven Madison Park - Offers a modern take on American cuisine. Location: 11 Madison Ave, New York, USA.
Ristorante Da Vittorio - An upscale dining experience in a tranquil setting. Location: Via Cantalupa, 17, Brusaporto, Italy.
Narisawa - Known for its innovative and sustainable cuisine. Location: 2-6-15 Minami Aoyama, Tokyo, Japan.
The Fat Duck - Provides an experimental dining journey. Location: High St, Bray, United Kingdom.
Arpège - Michelin-starred dining with a focus on vegetables. Location: 84 Rue de Varenne, Paris, France.
Central Restaurant - Celebrates Peruvian biodiversity. Location: Av. Pedro de Osma 301, Lima, Peru.
Quintonil - Modern Mexican dishes with a twist. Location: Av. Isaac Newton 55, Mexico City, Mexico.
Gaggan - Proves Indian cuisine with progressive presentations. Location: 68/1 Soi Langsuan, Bangkok, Thailand.
D.O.M. - Incorporates unique Brazilian ingredients. Location: Rua Barão de Capanema, 549, São Paulo, Brazil.

Enjoy making your crispy chicken drumsticks and exploring the world of flavors it brings to your table!