These Stuffed Chicken Drumsticks are a flavorful and juicy dish that combines perfectly seasoned chicken with a delicious stuffing of mushrooms, carrots, onions, and melted cheddar cheese. The marinade infuses the chicken with rich, smoky, and savory flavors, while the filling adds a delightful contrast of textures. Perfect for dinner, special occasions, or meal prepping, this dish is sure to impress!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes (optional)
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 6 stuffed drumsticks
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 6 chicken drumsticks
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
For the Filling:
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 250 g (8.8 oz) mushrooms, finely chopped
- 40 g (1.4 oz) cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Remove the bone from each chicken drumstick by cutting around the top and sliding the meat down to create a pocket.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, mayonnaise, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the chicken drumsticks with this marinade and let them rest for 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan.
- Sauté onion and grated carrot until soft.
- Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and black pepper, then remove from heat.
- Stir in cheddar cheese and chopped parsley. Let cool slightly.
3. Stuff the Chicken:
- Fill each chicken pocket with the prepared mushroom-cheese mixture.
- Secure with toothpicks or tie with kitchen twine to keep the filling inside.
4. Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Place stuffed drumsticks on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting with juices halfway through.
- For crispy skin, broil for 3-5 minutes at the end.
5. Serve:
- Remove toothpicks or twine and serve hot. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic mashed potatoes or buttered rice.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad for a lighter meal.
- Drizzle with garlic yogurt sauce or barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips
- For extra crispy skin, brush the drumsticks with a little butter before baking.
- Use a meat thermometer – the internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).
- Try different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for a different taste.
- Make it spicy by adding chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in protein, great for muscle growth.
- Mushrooms and carrots provide fiber and antioxidants.
- Cheddar cheese adds calcium, supporting bone health.
- Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-free
- Not suitable for vegetarians
- Can be made low-carb by omitting the carrot.
Nutritional Facts (Per Drumstick)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Calcium: 100mg
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Juicy, flavorful, and cheesy!
- Easy to customize with different fillings.
- Great for meal prep – make ahead and reheat when needed.
- Perfect for a special dinner but easy enough for a weeknight meal.
Conclusion
These Stuffed Chicken Drumsticks are a perfect blend of juicy, well-seasoned chicken and a cheesy, savory filling. Whether you serve them for a family dinner or a special gathering, they are guaranteed to be a hit. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, protein-packed meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of drumsticks?
Yes! Butterfly chicken breasts, pound them thin, and roll them around the filling. - Can I pan-fry instead of baking?
Yes, but bake them for 10 minutes afterward to ensure they cook through. - What other fillings can I use?
Spinach and ricotta, sun-dried tomatoes with feta, or sautéed bell peppers work great! - Can I use boneless drumsticks?
Yes! They are easier to work with, but you may need to secure them well. - How do I keep the filling from falling out?
Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold the opening together. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes for the best texture. - Can I grill these instead of baking?
Yes! Grill over medium heat for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally. - How do I make this dish dairy-free?
Replace cheddar cheese with dairy-free cheese or omit it entirely. - Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes! This will enhance the flavor even more. - What side dishes go best with this?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad complement this dish perfectly.
Would you like any modifications or additional variations? 😊