Name: Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tsp olive oil; 1 onion; 2 garlic cloves; 8 chicken drumsticks; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup mushrooms; 1 tomato; 15 oz condensed tomato soup; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tub reduced fat cream cheese; chives

Delight in a comforting dish with creamy tomato chicken drumsticks. This recipe combines savory chicken drumsticks with a luscious tomato sauce, perfectly paired with broccoli and mushrooms. The addition of cream cheese ensures a rich, velvety finish.

Photos of Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you may need to procure reduced fat cream cheese and condensed tomato soup from the supermarket. These ingredients aren't always pantry staples, but they are crucial for achieving the creamy texture and robust flavor of the dish.

Ingredients For Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks

Olive oil: A good quality olive oil is essential for frying and adding a subtle richness to the dish.

Onion: Onions provide a sweet and savory base for the sauce.

Garlic cloves: Garlic enhances the flavor with its aromatic and pungent notes.

Chicken drumsticks: Meaty and flavorful, chicken drumsticks are the star of this dish.

Broccoli florets: Broccoli adds a nutritious and colorful element to the recipe.

Mushrooms: Earthy and tender, mushrooms complement the other ingredients well.

Tomato: Fresh tomatoes contribute acidity and sweetness to the sauce.

Condensed tomato soup: This ingredient creates a rich, tomatoey base for the creamy sauce.

Tomato paste: Tomato paste intensifies the tomato flavor and helps to thicken the sauce.

Reduced fat cream cheese: This ingredient gives the sauce its creamy texture without too many extra calories.

Chives: Fresh chives add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color when used as a garnish.

One reader, Engracia Herrmann says:

This creamy tomato chicken drumsticks recipe is a winner! The flavors blend perfectly, and the chicken turns out tender and juicy. The addition of broccoli and mushrooms makes it a wholesome meal. Easy to make and absolutely delicious!

Engracia Herrmann

Cooking Techniques for Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks

Yes.

How to fry onions and garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring occasionally until they become fragrant and soft, usually about 5-7 minutes.

How to brown chicken drumsticks: Place the chicken drumsticks in the skillet with the fried onions and garlic. Turn them occasionally to ensure they brown evenly on all sides, which should take about 8-10 minutes.

How to cook broccoli, mushrooms, and tomato: Add broccoli florets, sliced mushrooms, and chopped tomato to the skillet. Cook until the broccoli begins to change color and the tomato softens, usually about 5-7 minutes.

How to simmer: After adding the condensed tomato soup, reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer. This means cooking it gently with small bubbles breaking the surface, for about 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

How to thicken sauce with tomato paste: Stir in the tomato paste to the simmering mixture. This will help thicken the sauce. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.

How to incorporate cream cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the reduced-fat cream cheese until it is fully melted and combined with the sauce.

How To Make Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks

Pan-fried chicken drumsticks until perfectly tender served with creamy tomato sauce. This recipe is a heartwarming dinner your family will love.

Preparation:

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tspolive oil
1onionfinely chopped
2garlic clovescrushed
8chicken drumsticks
2cupsbroccoli florets
1cupmushrooms
1tomatoripe, diced
15ozcondensed tomato soupor tomato sauce
1tbsptomato paste
1tubreduced fat cream cheeseor fat free
Chivesto garnish

Instructions

Fry the onion and garlic in a large skillet or frying pan until fragrant and soft. Add in the chicken drumsticks and fry while turning occasionally to brown on all sides.
Add the broccoli, mushrooms and tomato, and continue to cook until the broccoli just begins to change color and the tomato softens.
Pour in the soup. Reduce heat and allow to simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Add in the tomato paste, stirring to thicken the sauce.
Continue simmering for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken is soft and tender. Take off heat, stir the cream cheese (or greek yogurt) through and serve over rice or quinoa.

Recipe Notes

You can substitute the cream cheese with greek yogurt for a healthier option.

Nutrition

Calories: 657.87kcal
Fat: 37.19g
Saturated Fat: 12.37g
Trans Fat: 0.13g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.00g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.00g
Carbohydrates: 25.42g
Fiber: 2.44g
Sugar: 12.64g
Protein: 53.81g
Cholesterol: 275.89mg
Sodium: 831.32mg
Calcium: 94.87mg
Potassium: 1533.95mg
Iron: 3.33mg
Vitamin A: 210.15µg
Vitamin C: 46.43mg

Helpful Technique for Making Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks

When browning the chicken drumsticks, make sure to do so over medium-high heat to achieve a golden, crispy exterior. This not only enhances the flavor but also locks in the juices, keeping the chicken tender and moist.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Pre-chop vegetables: Chop the onion, garlic, broccoli florets, mushrooms, and tomato in advance and store them in airtight containers.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Substitute raw chicken drumsticks with pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to reduce cooking time.

Opt for frozen vegetables: Use frozen broccoli florets and mushrooms to skip washing and chopping.

Quick simmer: Use a pressure cooker to speed up the simmering process of the tomato soup and chicken.

Cream cheese alternative: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a quicker blend.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the dish.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove for a similar flavor.
chicken drumsticks - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are similarly juicy and flavorful.
broccoli florets - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower has a similar texture and can absorb flavors well.
mushrooms - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini provides a similar texture and can absorb the creamy tomato sauce.
tomato - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes offer a similar flavor and texture.
condensed tomato soup - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can provide a similar consistency and flavor when cooked down.
tomato paste - Substitute with sun-dried tomato paste: Sun-dried tomato paste offers a more intense tomato flavor.
reduced fat cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture with less fat.
chives - Substitute with green onions: Green onions offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.

Presentation Tips for Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken drumsticks in a minimalist fashion, placing two drumsticks per plate to maintain elegance and focus on quality over quantity.
Use decoration: Garnish with finely chopped chives and a drizzle of olive oil around the plate to add a touch of color and sophistication.
Layer the vegetables: Arrange the broccoli florets, mushrooms, and tomato in a visually appealing pattern around the chicken drumsticks, ensuring each vegetable is visible and vibrant.
Create a sauce pool: Pour the creamy tomato soup and tomato paste mixture into a small pool on the plate, allowing the chicken drumsticks to rest partially in the sauce for a dramatic effect.
Add a creamy touch: Place a dollop of the reduced-fat cream cheese mixture on top of each drumstick, letting it melt slightly to create a rich and inviting appearance.
Serve with a side: Accompany the dish with a small portion of rice or quinoa on the side, shaped using a mold for a clean and professional presentation.
Highlight textures: Ensure the chicken skin is crispy and the vegetables are tender but not overcooked, providing a delightful contrast in textures.
Use elegant plating: Utilize a large, white plate to frame the dish, allowing the colors and textures of the ingredients to stand out against the neutral background.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks

Large skillet or frying pan: Used for frying the onion, garlic, and chicken drumsticks, and for simmering the entire dish.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Essential for stirring the ingredients and ensuring they cook evenly.
Knife: Necessary for chopping the onion, garlic, broccoli, mushrooms, and tomato.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping all the vegetables and other ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil and tomato paste accurately.
Measuring cups: Needed for measuring the broccoli florets, mushrooms, and condensed tomato soup.
Tongs: Useful for turning the chicken drumsticks to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.
Mixing bowl: Handy for holding the chopped vegetables before adding them to the skillet.
Lid for the skillet: Helps to cover the skillet while simmering, ensuring the chicken cooks through properly.
Serving spoon: Used for serving the finished dish over rice or quinoa.
Rice cooker or pot: If serving with rice, this will be needed to cook the rice.
Cheese grater: If you need to grate the cream cheese for easier mixing.

Storing and Freezing Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks

Allow the creamy tomato chicken drumsticks to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled chicken drumsticks and sauce into an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
If you plan to freeze the dish, follow these steps:
1. Place the cooled chicken drumsticks and sauce in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag.
2. If using a container, make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
3. Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
4. Lay the bag flat in the freezer to save space and ensure even freezing.
Frozen creamy tomato chicken drumsticks can be stored for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw the frozen dish overnight in the refrigerator.
Transfer the thawed chicken drumsticks and sauce to a skillet or saucepan and reheat over medium heat until warmed through and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
If the sauce appears too thick after thawing, you can add a little chicken broth or water to thin it out while reheating.
Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover creamy tomato chicken drumsticks in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and prevent it from drying out.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the leftover chicken drumsticks in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and rubbery.
If you want to crisp up the skin of the chicken drumsticks, you can reheat them in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the drumsticks in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the chicken is heated through.
For a stovetop method, place the leftover creamy tomato chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to help keep the chicken moist. Cover the skillet and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover chicken drumsticks, try brushing them with a mixture of melted butter, garlic powder, and dried herbs before reheating. This will give the chicken a delicious, savory flavor and help to keep it moist.

Interesting Fact About Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks

A random fact about this creamy tomato chicken drumsticks recipe is that the inclusion of reduced fat cream cheese not only adds a rich and creamy texture but also helps to balance the acidity of the tomato soup and tomato paste.

Is Making Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks at Home Cost-Effective?

This creamy tomato chicken drumsticks recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like chicken drumsticks, broccoli, mushrooms, and tomato soup are affordable and easily accessible. The use of reduced fat cream cheese adds a creamy texture without breaking the bank. Overall, this recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20 USD, making it a budget-friendly yet delicious option for dinner.

Is This Creamy Tomato Chicken Recipe Healthy?

This creamy tomato chicken drumsticks recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutritious ingredients like broccoli, mushrooms, and tomatoes, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Chicken drumsticks are a good source of protein, and using reduced-fat cream cheese helps lower the overall fat content. However, the recipe also contains some less healthy components, such as condensed tomato soup, which can be high in sodium and added sugars. Additionally, the cooking method involves frying the chicken and vegetables in oil, which can increase the calorie and fat content of the dish.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use low-sodium or homemade tomato soup to reduce the salt content
Replace the olive oil with a cooking spray or a smaller amount of heart-healthy oil, such as avocado oil
Opt for skinless chicken drumsticks to reduce the fat content further
Increase the proportion of vegetables to chicken for added fiber and nutrients
Serve the dish with a side of whole grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, to provide complex carbohydrates and additional fiber
Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a lower-fat, higher-protein alternative
Add more herbs and spices, like basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes, to enhance the flavor without relying on salt or fat

Editor's Opinion on Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks

This creamy tomato chicken drumsticks recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce creates a comforting and satisfying dish. The use of reduced-fat cream cheese adds a luscious creaminess without being overly heavy. The inclusion of broccoli and mushrooms provides a nice contrast and adds nutritional value. Serving it over rice or quinoa makes it a complete meal. Overall, it's a well-balanced and flavorful recipe that's easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd.

Enhance Your Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Imagine the crispy, golden exterior of potatoes mingling with the rich, savory notes of garlic and parmesan. This side dish will add a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the creamy, tangy essence of the tomato chicken drumsticks.

Lemon Herb Couscous: A light and fluffy couscous infused with the zesty brightness of lemon and the aromatic touch of fresh herbs. This side dish brings a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy sauce of the chicken drumsticks, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots glazed with a luscious honey coating, offering a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory and creamy notes of the tomato chicken drumsticks. This side dish adds a pop of color and a touch of elegance to your plate.

Spinach and Feta Salad: A vibrant mix of fresh spinach leaves, crumbled feta cheese, and a tangy vinaigrette. This salad provides a refreshing, crisp contrast to the creamy richness of the chicken drumsticks, making it a perfect palate cleanser.

Buttery Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty bread slathered with a rich butter and garlic spread. This side dish is perfect for soaking up the creamy tomato sauce of the chicken drumsticks, ensuring no drop of that delicious sauce goes to waste.

Similar Recipes to Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs: Indulge in the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan with these succulent chicken thighs. Perfectly browned and simmered in a creamy sauce, this dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Lemon Herb Chicken Drumsticks: Brighten up your meal with these zesty lemon and herb infused chicken drumsticks. The refreshing citrus notes combined with aromatic herbs make this a delightful main course, especially when served with a fresh garden salad or steamed asparagus.

Mushroom Chicken Stroganoff: Dive into the comforting world of stroganoff with this creamy mushroom and chicken version. Rich and hearty, this dish is best enjoyed over a bed of egg noodles or buttery mashed potatoes.

Spicy Tomato Basil Chicken: Turn up the heat with this spicy tomato and basil chicken recipe. The bold flavors of chili and fresh basil create a tantalizing dish that pairs excellently with pasta or garlic bread.

Creamy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts: Elevate your dinner with these chicken breasts stuffed with a luscious spinach and cream cheese filling. Baked to perfection, this dish is a crowd-pleaser when served with wild rice or roasted sweet potatoes.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine starting your meal with a delightful bite of stuffed mushrooms. These little gems are filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and finely chopped herbs. The mushrooms are baked until golden and the filling is perfectly crispy. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy stuffing, making them an irresistible appetizer that will leave your guests craving more.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with a classic bruschetta. This appetizer features toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt elevate the flavors, creating a refreshing and aromatic bite. The crispiness of the baguette contrasts beautifully with the juicy, flavorful topping, making it a perfect start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the luxury of a decadent chocolate lava cake. This delightful creation features a rich, molten chocolate center that oozes out with each bite. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavors. Garnish with fresh berries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or a romantic dinner.**

Lemon Meringue Pie: Experience the zesty delight of a classic lemon meringue pie. This dessert combines a tangy lemon curd filling with a light, fluffy meringue topping. Bake it to perfection until the meringue is golden and crispy on the outside yet soft and marshmallow-like on the inside. Serve chilled for a refreshing contrast to the creamy tomato chicken drumsticks. Garnish with thin lemon slices and a sprig of mint for a beautiful finish. This dessert is ideal for summer gatherings or a light after-dinner treat.**

Why trust this Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of tomato soup and tomato paste with the creamy texture of reduced fat cream cheese. The chicken drumsticks are browned to perfection, ensuring a tender and juicy bite every time. Fresh broccoli florets, mushrooms, and tomato add a nutritious and colorful touch. The use of olive oil and aromatic onion and garlic enhances the overall flavor profile. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a reliable choice for any home cook.

Share your thoughts on the Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs would work just as well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of condensed tomato soup?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You might need to cook them down a bit longer to get the same consistency as the condensed soup. You could also add a bit of chicken broth to help create a saucy texture.

Is there a substitute for reduced-fat cream cheese?

If you don't have reduced-fat cream cheese, you can use regular cream cheese or even Greek yogurt. Both will give you that creamy texture you're looking for.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also cut into one of the drumsticks to check if the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just keep in mind that different vegetables might have different cooking times, so add them accordingly.