Buttermilk Drumsticks
Crispy, flavorful buttermilk chicken drumsticks with a golden coating, perfect for casual dinners or gatherings, offering tender meat with a savory, seasoned crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken drumsticks in a 9-inch square baking dish and pour buttermilk over them.
- Cover and chill for 1 to 2 hours, turning occasionally.
- Drain the chicken.
- Combine flour, salt, black pepper, and onion powder in a plastic bag.
- Add chicken to the bag, close tightly, and shake to coat.
- Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet to 325°F (163°C).
- Add chicken to the hot oil and cook about 10 minutes, turning once.
- Cover the skillet, reduce heat, and cook for 20 minutes, turning often.
- Remove the cover and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Drain the chicken on paper towels.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or paprika to the flour mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, try using skinless chicken drumsticks. Allowing the chicken to marinate in the buttermilk longer can enhance the tenderness and flavor. Experimenting with spices can help you create a unique twist on this classic dish, similar to other chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These buttermilk drumsticks are delicious served with classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or baked beans. A fresh garden salad can also complement the meal nicely. For a unique twist, serve them with a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a side of Mrs. Eunice's Giblet Gravy. They make a great main course for gatherings and are perfect for picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover buttermilk drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, ensuring they retain their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buttermilk Drumsticks contains roughly 268 calories, with 14g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 504mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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 different parts of the chicken instead of drumsticks?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs or breasts for drumsticks. However, cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly. Thighs are ideal for a juicier result, while breasts will cook faster and might require less time in the oil.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don't have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 2/3 cup of milk with 2 teaspoons of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will work well for marinating the chicken and maintaining moisture.
How can I make these drumsticks spicier?
To add heat, consider mixing cayenne pepper or chili powder into the flour mixture. You can also marinate the chicken in buttermilk with hot sauce or add chopped jalapeños. This will give your drumsticks an extra kick that pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the dish.
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).