Keto Chicken Drumsticks : These low carb chicken drumsticks are packed with rich flavor, crispy skin, and a juicy interior, this meal is a winner for anyone on a low-carb lifestyle.
Why Chicken Drumsticks Are Great for Keto
Chicken drumsticks are naturally high in protein and fat, making them ideal for the keto diet, which emphasizes low-carb, moderate-protein, and high-fat foods. Unlike chicken breast, which can be lean, drumsticks have a higher fat content, perfect for staying in ketosis and promoting satiety.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Keto Chicken Drumsticks
- Crispy Skin Secret: Always make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning. Moisture is the enemy of crispy skin! If you want even crispier results, you can broil the drumsticks for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid undercooking or overcooking your chicken, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (75°C).
- Marinating for Extra Flavor: For even more flavor, marinate the drumsticks for at least 30 minutes before cooking. You can use the same spice mix with an extra dash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick.
- Air Fryer Option: For even crispier skin, you can cook these in an air fryer at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Variations of Keto Chicken Drumsticks
There are endless ways to customize your keto chicken drumsticks to keep things interesting. Here are a few variations you can try:
Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks: Toss the drumsticks in a keto-friendly hot sauce (such as Frank’s Red Hot) mixed with melted butter after baking. This spicy variation pairs well with a side of homemade keto ranch dressing.
Garlic Parmesan: After baking, toss the drumsticks in a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and grated parmesan cheese for a rich, savory twist.
Herb and Lemon: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the seasoning mix for a light, zesty version.
Bacon-Wrapped Drumsticks: For an indulgent treat, wrap each drumstick in a slice of bacon before baking. The bacon adds incredible flavor and extra fat for keto perfection.
How to Serve Keto Chicken Drumsticks
Keto chicken drumsticks are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of low-carb sides. Here are some great ideas for a complete keto-friendly meal:
- Cauliflower Mash: A creamy and buttery cauliflower mash makes for the perfect mashed potato substitute.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light and low in carbs, zucchini noodles add freshness to the richness of the drumsticks.
- Keto Coleslaw: A crunchy and tangy coleslaw made with keto-friendly mayo and apple cider vinegar balances out the flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair your chicken with roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for a nutrient-packed meal.
How to Store and Reheat Keto Chicken Drumsticks
Storing Leftovers: Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They also freeze well; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, you can use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. The air fryer is also a great option for reheating and maintaining crispy skin—reheat at 375°F for about 5 minutes.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Yes, chicken thighs are also keto-friendly and have a similar fat content. You can use them as a substitute, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Are chicken drumsticks keto-friendly?
Absolutely! Chicken drumsticks are perfect for the keto diet due to their higher fat content and zero carbs. Pair them with healthy fats and low-carb veggies for a balanced meal.
Can I meal prep these drumsticks?
Yes, these drumsticks are ideal for meal prepping! You can bake a large batch and store them in the fridge or freezer. They reheat well and can be paired with various keto-friendly sides for multiple meals throughout the week.
Keto chicken drumsticks
Keto Chicken Drumsticks : These low carb chicken drumsticks are packed with rich flavor, crispy skin, and a juicy interior, this meal is a winner for anyone on a low-carb lifestyle.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked pepper
- 1 teaspoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Heat your oven to 425°F and lightly spray a baking sheet with non-stick spray.
- Season the Chicken: Toss all the ingredients into a large zip-top bag, seal it up, and give it a good smush to coat the drumsticks evenly with the seasoning.
- Bake: Spread the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 40-45 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and enjoy hot!
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 323Total Fat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 192mgSodium: 325mgCarbohydrates: 1gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 37g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Keto chicken drumsticks are an excellent option for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe offers crispy, flavorful drumsticks that are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you in ketosis. Whether you’re making them for a quick dinner, a meal prep option, or even game-day snacks, these drumsticks will quickly become a staple in your keto recipe rotation.
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