Chicken drums, also known as chicken drumsticks, are a popular and versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, cooking chicken drums can be a fun and rewarding experience. In this article, we’ll take you through the basics of cooking chicken drums, including preparation, cooking methods, and tips for achieving that perfect crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Preparation is Key
Before you start cooking your chicken drums, it’s essential to prepare them properly. Here are a few steps to follow:
Thawing and Rinsing
If your chicken drums are frozen, you’ll need to thaw them first. You can do this by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or by submerging them in cold water for a few hours. Once thawed, rinse the chicken drums under cold running water to remove any impurities.
Pat Dry and Season
Use paper towels to pat the chicken drums dry, removing any excess moisture. This will help the seasonings stick to the meat and promote even browning. Next, season the chicken drums with your desired herbs and spices. You can use a store-bought seasoning blend or create your own using salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Cooking Methods
There are several ways to cook chicken drums, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks. Here are a few popular methods:
Baked Chicken Drums
Baking is a healthy and easy way to cook chicken drums. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and arrange the chicken drums in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Grilled Chicken Drums
Grilling adds a smoky flavor to chicken drums that’s hard to beat. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken drums as desired and brush with olive oil. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Pan-Seared Chicken Drums
Pan-searing is a great way to achieve a crispy exterior on your chicken drums. Heat a skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan. Add the chicken drums and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they’re cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Tips for Achieving Crispy Skin
Crispy skin is the holy grail of chicken drum cooking. Here are a few tips to help you achieve it:
Dry Brining
Dry brining involves salting the chicken drums and letting them sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This helps to dry out the skin, which in turn helps it to crisp up during cooking.
Using the Right Oil
Using the right oil can make a big difference in the crispiness of your chicken drums. Look for oils with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil or grapeseed oil. These oils can handle high temperatures without breaking down or smoking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Overcrowding the pan can prevent the chicken drums from cooking evenly and can lead to steaming instead of browning. Cook the chicken drums in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook properly.
Additional Tips and Variations
Here are a few additional tips and variations to help you take your chicken drum cooking to the next level:
Marinating
Marinating the chicken drums in your favorite sauce or seasoning blend can add extra flavor and moisture. Try marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a few hours or overnight.
Using Different Seasonings
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and spices to find the flavor combination that you like best. Some popular seasoning blends include Korean BBQ, Indian-style, and Jamaican jerk.
Adding Aromatics
Adding aromatics such as onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the pan can add extra flavor to the chicken drums. Simply sauté the aromatics in a little oil before adding the chicken.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken drums is a fun and rewarding experience that can be customized to suit your tastes and preferences. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can achieve crispy, juicy chicken drums that are sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, we hope this article has inspired you to get cooking and experiment with new flavors and techniques.
| Cooking Method | Cooking Time | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Baked | 25-30 minutes | 165°F (74°C) |
| Grilled | 5-7 minutes per side | 165°F (74°C) |
| Pan-Seared | 5-7 minutes per side | 165°F (74°C) |
By following these guidelines and experimenting with different cooking methods and seasonings, you can create delicious and mouth-watering chicken drums that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
What is the best way to marinate chicken drums for crispy exterior and juicy interior?
To achieve a crispy exterior and juicy interior, it’s essential to marinate the chicken drums in a mixture that contains acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar, along with spices and herbs. The acid helps to break down the proteins on the surface of the chicken, creating a tender and juicy interior. You can also add a bit of oil to the marinade to help the chicken brown evenly.
When marinating, make sure to coat the chicken drums evenly and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to an hour. You can also marinate them overnight for more intense flavor. Before cooking, pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help the chicken brown more evenly.
How do I achieve a crispy exterior on my chicken drums?
Achieving a crispy exterior on chicken drums requires a combination of proper cooking techniques and the right seasonings. One way to get a crispy exterior is to dust the chicken drums with a mixture of flour, cornstarch, or panko breadcrumbs before cooking. You can also add spices and herbs to the coating mixture for extra flavor.
When cooking, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken drums. You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil – if it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is ready. Cook the chicken drums until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, then reduce the heat to finish cooking the interior.
What is the best cooking method for chicken drums?
The best cooking method for chicken drums is a combination of pan-frying and oven baking. Pan-frying helps to create a crispy exterior, while oven baking ensures that the interior is cooked evenly and remains juicy. You can also deep-fry the chicken drums for an extra crispy exterior, but this method requires more oil and can be messy.
When pan-frying, use a skillet or sauté pan with a small amount of oil and cook the chicken drums over medium-high heat until they are browned on all sides. Then, transfer the chicken drums to the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
How do I prevent my chicken drums from drying out?
To prevent chicken drums from drying out, it’s essential to cook them at the right temperature and not overcook them. Make sure to cook the chicken drums until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), but avoid overcooking them. You can also brine the chicken drums before cooking to help retain moisture.
When cooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken drums. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can check for doneness by cutting into one of the drums – if the juices run clear, the chicken is cooked through.
Can I cook chicken drums in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook chicken drums in a slow cooker, but the results may vary. Slow cooking can help to tenderize the chicken and make it fall-off-the-bone, but it may not produce a crispy exterior. To achieve a crispy exterior, you can broil the chicken drums in the oven for a few minutes after slow cooking.
When slow cooking, make sure to cook the chicken drums on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You can also add your favorite sauces or seasonings to the slow cooker for extra flavor.
How do I store leftover chicken drums?
To store leftover chicken drums, make sure to cool them to room temperature within two hours of cooking. Then, refrigerate or freeze them in a covered container. Cooked chicken drums can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to four months.
When reheating leftover chicken drums, make sure to heat them to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat them in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop.
Can I make chicken drums ahead of time?
Yes, you can make chicken drums ahead of time, but it’s best to cook them just before serving for optimal flavor and texture. If you need to make them ahead of time, you can prepare the marinade and coat the chicken drums with the coating mixture, then refrigerate or freeze them until cooking time.
When cooking ahead of time, make sure to cook the chicken drums until they are almost done, then refrigerate or freeze them until serving time. You can reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop until crispy and hot.