Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with a mouthwatering twist? Imagine succulent chicken drumsticks, perfectly glazed with a rich Coca Cola marinade that will have your taste buds dancing! This American classic is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it also boasts a unique flavor profile that will leave your family begging for seconds. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Dive into this recipe for Baked Drumsticks with Coca Cola, and discover how a simple soda can transform your chicken into a sensational feast!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup Coca Cola
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking dish with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- In a mixing bowl, combine Coca Cola, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure they absorb the marinade effectively.
- Season the drumsticks with salt and pepper on all sides, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the seasoned drumsticks in the prepared baking dish in a single layer, not overcrowding the pan.
- Pour the Coca Cola marinade evenly over the drumsticks, making sure each piece is well-coated.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help retain moisture during initial cooking.
- Bake covered in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the skin to caramelize and become golden brown.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part to ensure it's fully cooked.
- Remove from the oven and let the drumsticks rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Optionally, baste the drumsticks with the pan juices before serving for extra flavor and moisture.
Tips
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken drumsticks in the Coca Cola mixture for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator to enhance the flavor even more.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your drumsticks are perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Crispy Skin Lovers: For an extra crispy skin, broil the drumsticks for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking after removing the foil. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
- Serve with Sides: Pair these delicious drumsticks with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers? No Problem!: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven or enjoyed cold in salads or sandwiches!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 120mg
