Buffalo Drumsticks

Prep: 720 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Juicy chicken drumsticks coated in a tangy, spicy Buffalo-style marinade, perfect for flavorful game-day snacks or casual dinners. The blend of Dijon mustard, garlic, hot sauce, and paprika creates a bold, zesty taste that appeals to spice lovers and chicken enthusiasts alike.

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Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon light vegetable oil
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons hot pepper sauce
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 8 chicken drumsticks

Instructions

  1. Combine crushed garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, vegetable oil, hot pepper sauce, and paprika in a small bowl and mix well.
  2. Dip each chicken drumstick in the marinade, coating well, and arrange them in a single layer in a shallow glass dish.
  3. Pour any remaining marinade over the drumsticks. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator overnight.
  4. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it return to room temperature before cooking.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicier kick. If you don't have Dijon mustard, yellow mustard can work in a pinch, though the flavor will be milder. Ensure the drumsticks are well-coated in the marinade for maximum flavor infusion. For even cooking, try to select drumsticks of similar size.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Buffalo drumsticks with a side of celery sticks and carrot sticks for a classic pairing. They also go well with a creamy blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. They make a great addition to any game day spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Buffalo drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave them, but oven reheating will keep the skin crispy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Buffalo Drumsticks contains roughly 104 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 10g fat.

104 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.4g 1% DV
Total Fat 10.4g 13% DV
Carbs 2.7g 1% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 0.9g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 128.9mg 6% DV
Potassium 85.2mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 0.3mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 25.6mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 1.3mg 1% DV
Calcium 11.7mg 1% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of chicken part instead of drumsticks?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs or wings for drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, with wings typically requiring less time and thighs needing a bit longer to ensure they are cooked through.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To increase the heat level, add more hot pepper sauce or incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the marinade. You can also use a spicier variety of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Can I grill the drumsticks instead of baking them?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium heat and cook the drumsticks for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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