Name: Saucy Chicken Drumettes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 3
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Chicken Drumettes:; 1 lb chicken drumettes; Cooking spray; Sauce; For Classic Buffalo Sauce:; ¼ cup butter; ¾ cup hot pepper sauce; 1½ tsp cornstarch

Get ready to prepare a crowd-pleasing appetizer with our Saucy Chicken Drumettes recipe. This recipe combines the heat of buffalo sauce with crisp, tender chicken drumettes to create a dish that's perfect for game night, picnics, or just about any gathering.

Photos of Saucy Chicken Drumettes Recipe

All ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in most supermarkets. However, you might want to pay special attention to the hot pepper sauce. It's usually located in the condiments aisle or the international foods section. Also, it comes in different heat levels, so you can choose according to your taste preference.

Ingredients for Saucy Chicken Drumettes

Chicken drumettes: These are the small, meaty sections of chicken wings. They cook quickly and evenly, making them ideal for this recipe.

Cooking spray: This is used to prevent the chicken from sticking to the baking sheet. Olive oil spray is a good choice.

Butter: It adds a creamy, rich flavor to the buffalo sauce.

Hot pepper sauce: This is the key ingredient for making classic buffalo sauce. It adds the tangy, spicy flavor.

Cornstarch: It acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, giving it a glossy, slick texture.

One reader, Donnell Mcgee says:

This saucy chicken drumettes recipe is a game-changer! The buffalo sauce is the perfect balance of spicy and tangy, and the drumettes come out so juicy and flavorful. It's a hit every time I make it for game nights or family gatherings. Highly recommend trying it out!

Donnell Mcgee

Cooking Techniques for Saucy Chicken Drumettes Recipe

How to make classic buffalo sauce: In a small saucepot, whisk together the cornstarch and hot sauce until smooth. Add the butter and heat over a medium burner until the butter is melted. Cook and stir for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Divide the sauce between two bowls, one for raw chicken and one for cooked.

How to bake chicken drumettes: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Rinse the chicken drumettes and blot them dry with paper towels. Toss the drumettes with the tongs in the bowl with half of the sauce. Spread the drumettes in an even layer on the baking sheet and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. After removing the sheet from the oven, use the tongs to toss the drumettes in the remaining sauce.

How to serve saucy chicken drumettes: Serve the saucy chicken drumettes with celery sticks and a dip of choice. Enjoy!

How To Make Saucy Chicken Drumettes

Spicy and juicy, these chicken drumettes are tossed and coated in classic buffalo sauce then popped in the oven for a tender bite that’s packed with a kick.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 50 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

For Chicken Drumettes:

1lbchicken drumettes
cooking spray
sauce,of choice

For Classic Buffalo Sauce:

¼cupbutter
¾cuphot pepper sauce
1½tspcornstarch

Instructions

Classic Buffalo Sauce:

Whisk the cornstarch and hot sauce together in a small saucepot until smooth.
Add the butter, and heat over a medium burner until the butter is melted. Cook and stir an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Divide the sauce between 2 bowls, one for raw chicken and one for cooked.

Chicken Drumettes:

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Rinse the chicken drumettes, and blot them dry with paper towels. Toss the drumettes with the tongs in the bowl with half of the sauce made. Spread the drumettes in an even layer on the baking sheet
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes.
Wash hands and the tongs. After taking the sheet out of the oven, use the tongs to toss the drumettes in the remaining sauce.
Serve with celery sticks and dip of choice and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 460.25kcal
Fat: 37.89g
Saturated Fat: 16.04g
Trans Fat: 0.73g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.95g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.71g
Carbohydrates: 2.86g
Fiber: 0.18g
Sugar: 0.72g
Protein: 26.95g
Cholesterol: 208.50mg
Sodium: 1621.69mg
Calcium: 25.71mg
Potassium: 368.54mg
Iron: 0.98mg
Vitamin A: 147.51µg
Vitamin C: 42.19mg

Expert Technique Tip for Saucy Chicken Drumettes Recipe

To ensure your chicken drumettes are cooked to perfection, it's important to maintain the right oven temperature. Overcooking can make them dry, while undercooking can lead to health risks. Using a meat thermometer can help you check the internal temperature of the drumettes. The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165° Fahrenheit.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Saucy Chicken Drumettes

Prep ahead: Prepare the classic buffalo sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time when you're ready to cook the chicken drumettes.

Use pre-cut chicken: Consider using pre-cut chicken drumettes to save time on preparation.

Double the batch: Make a larger batch of the classic buffalo sauce and freeze the extra for future use. This will save time on sauce preparation for your next meal.

Invest in a baking rack: Use a baking rack on the baking sheet to cook the chicken drumettes. This will help the heat circulate evenly, reducing the cooking time and ensuring a crispy texture.

Organize your workspace: Before you start cooking, organize your ingredients and kitchen tools. This will help you work more efficiently and save time during the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Saucy Chicken Drumettes Recipe

chicken drumettes - Substitute with chicken wings: Chicken wings are a great substitute for drumettes as they are similar in size and have a similar texture, making them a suitable alternative for this recipe.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in this recipe to achieve a similar creamy texture and flavor, especially for those looking for a dairy-free option.
hot pepper sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha can be used as a substitute for hot pepper sauce to add a spicy kick to the dish, with a slightly different flavor profile that complements the chicken drumettes.

How to Beautifully Present Saucy Chicken Drumettes

Elevate the plating: Arrange the saucy chicken drumettes in a circular pattern on a large, white porcelain platter, ensuring each piece is positioned with precision and care.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley and chives over the chicken drumettes to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Place the saucy chicken drumettes on a bed of crispy kale chips to provide a delightful textural contrast and elevate the overall dining experience.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the saucy chicken drumettes on a sleek, modern serving tray to exude sophistication and refinement.
Add a touch of luxury: Drizzle a small amount of high-quality truffle oil over the saucy chicken drumettes to impart a luxurious aroma and flavor to the dish.
Create a visually appealing arrangement: Arrange the saucy chicken drumettes in a pyramid shape, with each piece delicately placed to create an eye-catching display that showcases culinary artistry.
Incorporate edible flowers: Adorn the platter with vibrant edible flowers such as pansies or nasturtiums to introduce a touch of elegance and a subtle floral note to the presentation.
Enhance with microgreens: Sprinkle a handful of delicate microgreens over the saucy chicken drumettes to add a burst of color and a hint of earthy flavor to the dish.
Use a minimalist approach: Embrace simplicity by presenting the saucy chicken drumettes on a pristine white plate, allowing the vibrant colors and rich textures of the dish to take center stage.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use a squeeze bottle to create elegant, artistic drizzles of the buffalo sauce around the perimeter of the platter, adding a touch of finesse to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Chicken Drumettes

Oven: An essential appliance for baking or roasting the chicken drumettes until they are crispy and cooked through.
Baking sheet: Used to place the chicken drumettes in an even layer for baking in the oven.
Small saucepot: Utilized for heating and mixing the ingredients to prepare the classic buffalo sauce.
Whisk: Used to combine the cornstarch and hot sauce for the buffalo sauce until smooth.
Tongs: Essential for tossing the chicken drumettes in the buffalo sauce and for serving.

Storing and Freezing Saucy Chicken Drumettes

Let the chicken drumettes cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, place the cooled drumettes in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
If you want to freeze the drumettes, follow these steps:
1. Place the cooled drumettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other.
2. Put the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the drumettes are frozen solid.
3. Transfer the frozen drumettes to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
4. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
5. Frozen chicken drumettes will maintain their best quality for up to 3 months.
To reheat the drumettes, you can either:
- Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- Place the frozen drumettes directly in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
If you have leftover buffalo sauce, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can use it to coat more chicken, or as a dipping sauce for other appetizers.

How To Reheat Leftover Saucy Chicken Drumettes

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the leftover chicken drumettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the drumettes with a little bit of olive oil or melted butter to help crisp up the skin. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the drumettes are heated through and the skin is crispy.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the drumettes on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overcook them, as this can make the meat tough and rubbery.
If you want to reheat the drumettes on the stovetop, place them in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan to help keep the drumettes moist. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the drumettes are heated through.
For a crispy exterior, you can also reheat the drumettes in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the drumettes in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
If you have leftover buffalo sauce, you can brush it onto the drumettes before reheating to add extra flavor and moisture. You can also toss the reheated drumettes in a fresh batch of sauce for an even more intense flavor.
To prevent the drumettes from drying out during reheating, you can wrap them in aluminum foil before placing them in the oven or air fryer. This will help to lock in the moisture and keep the meat tender and juicy.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover drumettes, try tossing them in a new sauce or seasoning blend before reheating. Some great options include barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or a dry rub made with paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.

Interesting Trivia About Saucy Chicken Drumettes

The recipe for saucy chicken drumettes is a popular choice for parties and gatherings. The classic buffalo sauce adds a spicy kick to the dish, making it a favorite among those who enjoy bold flavors. The combination of hot pepper sauce and butter creates a rich and tangy sauce that perfectly coats the chicken drumettes. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for casual entertaining. Whether it's a game day or a casual get-together, saucy chicken drumettes are sure to be a hit with chicken lovers.

Is Making Saucy Chicken Drumettes at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this saucy chicken drumettes recipe is quite high. Chicken drumettes are relatively inexpensive, and the ingredients for the classic buffalo sauce are also affordable and readily available. The recipe provides a substantial amount of food for a household of 4 people at an approximate cost of $10-$15. The versatility of the dish and the satisfaction it brings make it a great choice for a family meal. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8 out of 10, considering its affordability, flavor, and ease of preparation.

Is This Chicken Drumettes Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The saucy chicken drumettes recipe, while tasty, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe relies heavily on butter and hot pepper sauce, which are high in saturated fat and sodium, respectively. Consuming too much of these ingredients can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure.
Chicken drumettes are often high in fat, particularly saturated fat, due to their skin and dark meat content.
The recipe lacks vegetables or other nutrient-dense ingredients that could balance out the meal.

However, with a few tweaks, this recipe can be made healthier without sacrificing flavor:

Replace the butter with a healthier alternative, such as olive oil or coconut oil, which contain beneficial monounsaturated and medium-chain fatty acids.
Reduce the amount of hot pepper sauce used, or opt for a lower-sodium variety to decrease the overall sodium content of the dish.
Remove the skin from the chicken drumettes to reduce the saturated fat content.
Incorporate more vegetables into the meal, such as serving the drumettes alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Consider using a leaner protein source, such as chicken breast or turkey drumettes, which are lower in fat compared to chicken drumettes.
Experiment with different herbs and spices, like garlic, rosemary, or thyme, to add flavor without relying on high-sodium sauces.

Editor's Opinion on This Saucy Chicken Drumettes Recipe

The recipe for saucy chicken drumettes is a classic and crowd-pleasing dish. The method of baking the drumettes ensures a crispy texture, while the classic buffalo sauce adds a tangy and spicy kick. The use of cornstarch in the sauce helps to achieve a thick and glossy consistency, coating the drumettes perfectly. This recipe is simple to follow and yields delicious results, making it a great choice for a casual gathering or game day snack. The addition of celery sticks and a dip complements the dish well, providing a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of the chicken.

Enhance Your Saucy Chicken Drumettes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mango Salsa: A refreshing and tangy mango salsa with a hint of spice is the perfect accompaniment to these saucy chicken drumettes.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Tender roasted broccoli florets tossed in a savory garlic parmesan sauce make a delicious and nutritious side dish for the saucy chicken drumettes.

Honey Sriracha Roasted Carrots: Sweet and spicy roasted carrots drizzled with a honey sriracha glaze add a burst of flavor and color to the saucy chicken drumettes.

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Berry Crumble: Indulge in a sweet and tangy berry crumble dessert that is perfect for any occasion.

Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair With Saucy Chicken Drumettes

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Marinate the salmon in a zesty lemon and herb mixture before grilling to perfection. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a filling mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices to stuff inside colorful bell peppers. Top with melted cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a dinner party or a romantic evening in.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the luscious combination of smooth, tangy cheesecake filling and sweet, juicy strawberries on a buttery graham cracker crust. This classic dessert is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why trust this Saucy Chicken Drumettes Recipe:

This recipe for saucy chicken drumettes is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The chicken drumettes are perfectly seasoned and baked to crispy perfection, while the classic buffalo sauce adds a tangy and spicy kick. The use of butter in the sauce ensures a rich and indulgent flavor, while the addition of hot pepper sauce brings the perfect amount of heat. The method of tossing the drumettes in the sauce twice ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Trust this recipe for a delicious and satisfying appetizer or main course that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Want to share your own twist on this Saucy Chicken Drumettes Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of the forum and let us know how you made it your own!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other cuts of chicken such as wings or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.

Can I make the sauce less spicy?

Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of hot pepper sauce or use a milder hot sauce to adjust the spiciness to your preference.

Can I grill the chicken drumettes instead of baking them?

Definitely! Grilling the drumettes will add a delicious smoky flavor. Just make sure to baste them with the sauce while grilling to keep them moist and flavorful.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before using and give it a good stir to ensure it's well combined.

Can I use a different type of sauce for the chicken drumettes?

Of course! You can experiment with different sauces such as barbecue, teriyaki, or honey mustard to create a variety of flavors for your chicken drumettes.