Marinated Drumsticks

Prep: 180 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Juicy chicken drumsticks marinated in a tangy tomato-vinegar mixture with fresh thyme and soy sauce, perfect for flavorful, easy-to-prepare family dinners or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine tomato paste, vinegar, chopped thyme, and soy sauce.
  2. Add drumsticks, turning to coat.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for 2-3 hours.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, marinate the drumsticks overnight instead of just 2-3 hours. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for white vinegar if you prefer a slightly sweeter taste. Fresh thyme can be replaced with dried thyme, using about one-third the amount, as the flavor is more concentrated. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Serving Suggestions

These marinated drumsticks pair beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. For an American recipes twist, serve them alongside cornbread or macaroni and cheese. A tangy dipping sauce, such as ranch or barbecue, complements the flavors well. Consider pairing with a light white wine or iced tea for a refreshing meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover marinated 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 the drumsticks for about 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This method helps retain moisture and keeps the skin crispy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Marinated Drumsticks contains roughly 9 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.

9 kcal
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.8g 2% DV
Total Fat 0.1g
Carbs 1.5g 1% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 0.7g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 356.9mg 16% DV
Potassium 80.1mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 0.6mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 4.8mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 1.8mg 2% DV
Calcium 4.6mg
Iron 0.2mg 1% DV
Diet fit High-protein Keto-friendly Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Soy

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 other cuts of chicken for this marinade?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs or breasts instead of drumsticks. Just adjust the marinating time; thinner pieces like breasts may require less time to absorb the flavors, around 1-2 hours.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. This will maintain the flavor profile while ensuring it meets gluten-free dietary needs.

Can I grill the drumsticks instead of baking them?

Absolutely! Grilling the marinated drumsticks adds a delicious smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, then grill the drumsticks for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and have nice char marks.

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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