Mexican Style Drumsticks
Enjoy flavorful Mexican-style chicken drumsticks coated with seasoned crushed corn chips, baked to crispy perfection—perfect for casual dinners and gatherings craving bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the margarine.
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix, picante sauce, sugar, and salt.
- Roll each drumstick in the mixture, then roll in the crushed corn chips using a small amount at a time.
- Place the coated drumsticks in a lightly greased shallow baking pan or on a rack in a shallow pan.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 50 to 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For crispier skin, ensure the drumsticks are thoroughly coated with the corn chips, adding a bit more if necessary. If you prefer a less spicy version, reduce the amount of picante sauce or use mild taco seasoning. For a twist, try using crushed tortilla chips instead of corn chips. This recipe is great for meal prep, serving alongside Chicken Taquitas or Southwest Chicken Soup.
Serving Suggestions
These Mexican Style Drumsticks are perfect for a casual dinner or a game day feast. Serve them with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. Pairing with Chicken Enchiladas (Imuy Delicioso!) can create a delightful spread. For dipping, consider offering guacamole or a zesty salsa.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to retain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quicker option, though this may result in softer skin.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Style Drumsticks contains roughly 631 calories, with 9g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1441mg per serving (63% 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 skinless drumsticks for this recipe?
While skinless drumsticks can be used, they may not achieve the same crispy texture as those with skin. The skin helps to hold in moisture and creates a crunchy coating when baked. For best results, stick with skin-on drumsticks.
How can I adjust the spice level of these drumsticks?
To adjust the spice level, you can use a mild taco seasoning mix or reduce the amount of picante sauce. For a kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños to the coating mixture or serving with a spicy salsa on the side.
Can I bake these drumsticks in an air fryer?
Yes, you can air fry these drumsticks! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. This will give you a wonderfully crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy.
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).