Stuffed Chicken Drumsticks

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

  1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of drumsticks?
    Yes! Butterfly chicken breasts, pound them thin, and roll them around the filling.
  2. Can I pan-fry instead of baking?
    Yes, but bake them for 10 minutes afterward to ensure they cook through.
  3. What other fillings can I use?
    Spinach and ricotta, sun-dried tomatoes with feta, or sautéed bell peppers work great!
  4. Can I use boneless drumsticks?
    Yes! They are easier to work with, but you may need to secure them well.
  5. How do I keep the filling from falling out?
    Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold the opening together.
  6. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
    Reheat in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes for the best texture.
  7. Can I grill these instead of baking?
    Yes! Grill over medium heat for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally.
  8. How do I make this dish dairy-free?
    Replace cheddar cheese with dairy-free cheese or omit it entirely.
  9. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
    Yes! This will enhance the flavor even more.
  10. 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? 😊