Chipotle-Spiced Chicken Drumsticks
Why You’ll Love These Chipotle Chicken Drumsticks
If you’re looking for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish, these chipotle-spiced chicken drumsticks will be your go-to recipe! The smoky heat of chipotle paired with the natural sweetness of tomato puree creates an irresistible flavor explosion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a festive gathering, or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe delivers. Plus, it’s keto-friendly, paleo-approved, and packed with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
Key Ingredients Explained
Chicken Drumsticks (1 kg, about 8 medium pieces)
The star of the dish, drumsticks are juicy, tender, and absorb flavors beautifully.
Tomato Puree (115 g / ½ cup)
Adds a subtle sweetness and tanginess to balance the spice.
Chipotle Paste (2 tbsp)
The secret to the smoky, spicy flavor! Chipotle paste is made from smoked jalapeños, which bring depth to this recipe.
Onions (½ large, cubed) and Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
The dynamic duo that adds aromatic richness.
Olive Oil
Enhances the flavor and keeps the chicken moist during cooking.
Water (250 ml / 1 cup)
Ensures the chicken stays tender while slow-cooking in the oven.
Sea Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper
Simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
Fresh Cilantro
A garnish that adds a burst of freshness and color.
Equipment You’ll Need
Enameled Dutch Oven: This is essential for even heat distribution and preventing acidic reactions with the tomato puree.
Mixing Bowls: For combining the chipotle sauce.
Oven: Preheated to 175°C (350°F) for the perfect slow-cooked texture.
Why Slow-Cooking Matters
The slow-cooking method ensures that the chicken drumsticks stay juicy while allowing the flavors of the chipotle and tomato mixture to penetrate deeply. This technique also results in beautifully caramelized, slightly crisp drumsticks that are hard to resist.
Substitutions and Additions
No Dutch Oven?
Use a non-stick skillet for browning and a casserole dish for baking. Cover tightly with foil to retain moisture.
Extra Veggies?
Add diced bell peppers or zucchini to the Dutch oven for a wholesome twist.
Alternative Garnishes:
Swap cilantro with parsley or green onions if preferred.
Nutrition Benefits
This dish is not just delicious but also nutritious! Each serving offers:
High Protein: 16.8 g per drumstick to keep you full.
Low Carbs: Only 2.15 net carbs, making it perfect for keto and paleo diets.
Essential Vitamins: Packed with Vitamin A, C, and Iron for overall health.
Pro Tips for Success
Don’t Skip the Browning: Browning the drumsticks locks in the juices and enhances the flavor.
Deglaze for Flavor: Adding water to the pan after cooking onions and garlic helps lift all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
Rotate for Even Coating: Ensuring the drumsticks are fully coated in the sauce guarantees a flavorful bite every time.
Chipotle-Spiced Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients:
1 kg (8 medium) chicken drumsticks
115 g (½ cup) tomato puree
2 tbsp chipotle paste
½ large onion, cubed
2 garlic cloves, minced
250 ml (1 cup) water
Olive oil
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Season the drumsticks with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine tomato puree and chipotle paste. Add salt to taste.
Brown the Drumsticks:
Heat olive oil in an enameled Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Sear drumsticks in batches (4 at a time) for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics:
Add onions and garlic to the Dutch oven with extra olive oil. Sauté until golden.
Deglaze and Combine:
Add half the water to the Dutch oven to deglaze. Stir well.
Return the drumsticks and pour the tomato-chipotle mixture over them, coating evenly.
Bake to Perfection:
Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and bake at 175°C (350°F) for 45 minutes.
Add remaining water, stir, and bake uncovered for another 30 minutes until drumsticks are slightly crisp.
Serve and Garnish:
Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, and serve warm.
Notes:
Use a casserole dish with foil if you don’t have a Dutch oven.
Serve alongside cauliflower rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
