Craving bold, vibrant flavors for your next meal? These Mexican Chicken Drumsticks are an absolute must-try! Juicy, tender, and marinated to perfection, this dish brings the rich, smoky essence of Mexican cuisine right to your table. The combination of fresh lime, garlic, and smoked paprika creates a mouthwatering blend of spices that enhances the flavor of the chicken.
Best of all, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Whether paired with classic Mexican rice or a fresh salad, these drumsticks promise to steal the spotlight at your next meal.
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
- Simple & Affordable – Uses budget-friendly ingredients without compromising on flavor.
- Bold Flavors – A smoky, citrusy marinade with garlic and chili that brings the heat.
- Versatile – Serve with rice, grilled veggies, or wrap them in warm tortillas.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Marinate in advance for quick cooking when needed.
Mexican-Style Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Ingredients
Marinade:
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh coriander chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Chicken:
- 1 kg chicken drumsticks
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, coriander, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and smoked paprika. Set aside.
- Prep the Chicken: Rinse the chicken drumsticks in cold water and drain thoroughly.
- Marinate: Place the drumsticks in a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover with cling film and marinate for 30 minutes to let the flavors soak in.
- Preheat the Oven: Heat the oven to 180°C (fan). Line a baking tray with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange the drumsticks on the prepared tray. Pour any leftover marinade over the chicken. Bake for 45 minutes, turning the drumsticks halfway through for even cooking.
- Serve: Once golden and cooked through, serve hot with Mexican rice, roasted vegetables, or fresh salsa.
Notes
Image courtesy of Yummy Recipes
Serving Suggestion
Serve these Mexican Chicken Drumsticks with a side of fluffy Mexican Rice. It’s the perfect combo! Add some guacamole or a fresh salad on the side, and finish with a sprinkle of cilantro and a squeeze of lime for extra flavor!
Customization & Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne for more heat.
- Citrusy Twist: Squeeze fresh lime over the drumsticks just before serving.
- Sweet & Smoky: Mix a tablespoon of honey into the marinade for a sweet contrast to the spice.
- Grill Option: Grill the marinated Mexican Chicken Drumsticks for a smoky charred flavor.
Tips for Success
- Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the fridge.
- Crispy Skin: Increase the oven temperature to 200°C for the final 10 minutes to crisp up the skin.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 160°C to keep the Mexican chicken drumsticks juicy.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs or wings instead?
Absolutely! Adjust the baking time as smaller cuts may cook faster. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. - Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes! Marinate and freeze the Mexican chicken drumsticks for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking. - What can I serve with these drumsticks?
Mexican rice, grilled corn, guacamole, or even a light avocado salad make excellent sides.
Final Note
These Mexican-Style Chicken Drumsticks are a flavor-packed addition to your dinner rotation. Easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Give them a try and let us know how they turned out in the comments below!
Don’t forget to share your photos – we love seeing your kitchen creations!
Looking for More Easy Mexican-inspired Recipes?
Here are some must-try recipes that bring authentic Mexican vibes to your kitchen:
- Healthy Mexican Trader Joe’s Taco Bake Recipe
- Mexican Cabbage Recipe: Your Tacos’ New Best Friend
- Easy Mexican Roasted Potatoes Recipe
- Jiffy Mexican Cornbread Recipe
- Mexican Hot Chocolate (Chocolate Caliente)
- Mexican Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe
Give these recipes a try and bring the vibrant taste of Mexico to your table!
Tried This Recipe?
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