Butterflied Chicken Drumsticks

Butterflied Chicken Drumsticks – These are flavorful chicken with a perfect crispy skin with butterflying – slicing the meat open to flatten it then grilled and served with white sauce.

Why You Should Butterfly Chicken Drumsticks

Butterflying chicken drumsticks may seem like an extra step, but it’s worth it for several reasons:

• Quicker Cooking: Flattening the meat reduces cooking time, which is perfect for a weeknight meal.
• Even Cooking: Butterflying ensures that the meat cooks evenly, preventing undercooked spots near the bone.
• Better Seasoning: By opening up the chicken, marinades and rubs penetrate deeper, creating more flavorful drumsticks.
• Crispy Skin: With more surface area exposed, you can achieve perfectly crispy skin when grilling, baking, or pan-searing.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Butterflied Drumsticks

• Use kitchen shears: While you can use a sharp knife, kitchen shears offer more control when cutting through the meat.
• Marinate in advance: Marinating the butterflied drumsticks for at least an hour will infuse them with flavor. Try lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and herbs for a fresh, zesty marinade.
• Pat the chicken dry: Before seasoning or cooking, pat the butterflied drumsticks dry to ensure a crispy exterior. Moisture can prevent that golden, crunchy skin from forming.
• Preheat the grill or oven: Ensuring your cooking surface is hot before placing the drumsticks on will give you the perfect sear or char.
• Use a meat thermometer: Chicken drumsticks should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.

Cooking Methods for Butterflied Drumsticks

Grilling:

Grilled butterflied chicken drumsticks are a summertime favorite. The even surface allows for a beautiful char while keeping the inside juicy. Cook on medium-high heat, turning frequently for about 10-12 minutes, until they reach 165°F.

Oven-Baked:

Baking butterflied drumsticks is an easy way to achieve crispy skin without standing over a grill. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the drumsticks on a wire rack for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through.

Pan-Searing:

For a quick, stovetop version, pan-sear the butterflied drumsticks in a cast-iron skillet with a little olive oil. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Delicious Variations of Butterflied Chicken Drumsticks

1. Garlic and Herb: Marinate the chicken in olive oil, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Bake or grill for a fragrant and flavorful meal.
2. Spicy Honey Glazed: For a sweet and spicy kick, make a glaze with honey, soy sauce, sriracha, and lime juice. Brush it onto the drumsticks during the last few minutes of grilling or baking.
3. Lemon Pepper: Coat the butterflied drumsticks with a mixture of lemon zest, black pepper, and garlic powder. The fresh lemon flavor pairs beautifully with the crispy skin.
4. BBQ-Style: Use your favorite BBQ sauce to coat the drumsticks and grill them until the sauce is caramelized and sticky. For extra flavor, add a dry rub before grilling.

How to Serve Butterflied Chicken Drumsticks

Butterflied chicken drumsticks are incredibly versatile. Here are some great ways to serve them:

• With Sides: Pair them with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes for a balanced meal.
• Over Rice: Serve the drumsticks over a bed of seasoned rice or quinoa for a hearty dish.
• With Dipping Sauces: Offer sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli for dipping.
• In Tacos: Shred the chicken from the drumsticks and stuff it into soft tortillas with fresh salsa, avocado, and lime for a delicious taco variation.

How to Store Butterflied Chicken Drumsticks

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them properly:

1. Refrigerating: Store cooked butterflied chicken drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: To freeze, let the drumsticks cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
3. Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen drumsticks in the fridge overnight. Warm them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. To maintain crispy skin, avoid microwaving them, as it can make the chicken soggy.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use this technique with other cuts of chicken?

Yes! Butterflying works well with chicken breasts and thighs too. You can use the same method to ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption.

What’s the best way to marinate butterflied drumsticks?

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least an hour, but overnight is ideal. Use a mixture of oil, acid (like lemon juice or vinegar), and herbs or spices. This combination will tenderize the meat and boost flavor.

How do I ensure the chicken doesn’t stick to the grill?

Make sure your grill is clean and preheated. Lightly oil the grates before placing the chicken on. You can also brush the chicken with oil or marinade before grilling to prevent sticking.

Can I butterfly drumsticks in advance?

Yes! You can butterfly and marinate the drumsticks a day in advance. Keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to cook.

How can I tell when butterflied drumsticks are done cooking?

The best way to ensure the drumsticks are cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the drumstick (avoiding the bone), and check that it reaches 165°F.

Final Thoughts

Butterflied chicken drumsticks offer a versatile, flavorful, and quick way to prepare one of the most popular chicken cuts. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, butterflying enhances the drumstick’s ability to soak up marinades, cook evenly, and deliver deliciously crispy skin. With a few simple tips and recipe variations, you can make this dish the star of any meal. Don’t forget to try different marinades, sauces, and sides to keep things fresh and exciting!

Still Hungry! Try these chicken recipes:

• Citrus Chicken Marinade
• Grilled Chicken Burrito
• Chicken Kabobs