Chicken flats and drumettes are two popular cuts of chicken that come from the wings. Chicken wings contain three parts – the drumette, the flat, and the wing tip. The drumette is the upper section of the wing that is attached to the chicken’s body. The flat, also called the wingette, is the middle section. The wing tip is the skinny end section.
What are chicken drumettes?
Chicken drumettes, sometimes shortened to “drummies,” are the meaty upper portion of the chicken wing. They are shaped like a small drumstick, which is how they got their name. Drumettes are one of the most popular chicken wing sections because they contain a higher ratio of meat to bone compared to other parts of the wing.
Drumettes are connected to the chicken’s body and contain a single bone. They are covered in juicy, flavorful meat, skin, and cartilage. The bone ends in a rounded, ball-like shape rather than coming to a point, making drumettes easy to eat.
Drumettes are usually about 2-3 inches long and weigh around 1-1.5 ounces each. They are sold connected to the flat in whole wings or separated into packs of just drumettes.
Characteristics of Chicken Drumettes
- Meaty and juicy
- Mild chicken flavor
- Single bone with ball-shaped end
- Around 2-3 inches long
- Weigh approximately 1-1.5 ounces each
What are chicken flats/wingettes?
Chicken flats, also known as wingettes, are the middle section of the chicken wing. Flats are located between the drumettes and wing tips and are typically meatier than the tip but bonier than the drumette.
Flats contain a long, thin bone connected to a joint. They are covered in skin, a small layer of meat, tendons, and cartilage. Flats tend to have more connective tissue than drumettes.
Chicken wing flats are typically around 3-4 inches long and weigh 1-2 ounces each. They are sold connected to the drumette in whole wings or separated into packs of individual flats.
Characteristics of Chicken Flats
- Located between drumette and wing tip
- Contains a long, thin bone
- More connective tissue than drumettes
- Around 3-4 inches long
- Weigh approximately 1-2 ounces each
Differences Between Chicken Drumettes and Flats
While drumettes and flats both come from chicken wings, there are some notable differences between the two cuts:
Shape and Bone Structure
Drumettes are shaped like mini drumsticks with a rounded bone ending. Flats have an elongated bone connected to a joint.
Meat Content
Drumettes contain a higher ratio of meat to bone. Flats have a thin layer of meat around a central bone.
Tendons and Cartilage
Flats contain more soft cartilage and tendons while drumettes are mostly meat.
Flavor
Drumettes are considered more flavorful and juicy due to their higher meat content. Flats have a slightly milder flavor.
Cooking Differences
The irregular shape and small meat pockets of flats can make them more difficult to cook evenly than drumettes. Drumettes are easier to cook through.
Comparative Nutrition
Drumettes and flats have some nutritional differences due to their varying meat-to-bone ratios. Here is a nutrition comparison of chicken drumettes vs. flats (for 3 ounces cooked):
| Nutrient | Drumettes | Flats |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 184 | 160 |
| Fat | 10g | 8g |
| Protein | 17g | 15g |
| Carbs | 0g | 0g |
As shown above, drumettes contain a bit more fat and protein compared to flats when cooked weights are equal. This reflects their higher overall meat content.
Prices
On average, drumettes tend to cost slightly more per pound than flats. This is because they are considered the prime cut of the chicken wing, with the most meat.
However, prices can vary depending on the specific retailer and region. Specials and sales may also affect the prices of drumettes vs. flats. When sold as whole wings, drumettes and flats typically cost less per pound than when sold separately.
Average Retail Prices per Pound (US)*
- Drumettes: $3 – $6
- Flats: $2 – $5
- Whole wings: $1.50 – $3
*Prices are estimated ranges only
Popular Uses
Chicken drumettes and flats are extremely versatile cuts of meat that can be used in many different recipes. Here are some of the most popular uses for each:
Chicken Drumettes
- Chicken wings – drumettes are often used for wings since they are meatier and easier to eat than flats.
- Baked or grilled chicken – drumettes work great on their own as a main dish.
- Chicken skewers – thread drumettes onto skewers for easy flipping.
- Simmered in sauces or gravy – braising makes them tender.
- Add to salads, pasta, rice, etc – diced drumettes can add protein.
- Sandwiches or wraps – chopped drumettes work as a filling.
Chicken Flats
- Buffalo wings – flats hold sauce well when deep fried.
- Chicken soup – flats can provide extra protein and collagen.
- Stews, braises, and skillet dishes – long cooking times tenderize flats.
- Shredded chicken – flats work well for shredding once cooked.
- Chicken salads – use shredded or chopped flats.
- Burritos and tacos – diced or shredded flats as a filling.
How to Cook Chicken Drumettes and Flats
Drumettes and flats can be prepared using almost any cooking method including baking, frying, grilling, sautéing, and simmering in liquid. Here are some tips for cooking each cut of chicken:
Drumettes
- Grill over medium heat for 12-18 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.
- Bake at 375°F for 25-35 minutes until browned and juices run clear.
- Pan fry in a bit of oil for 8-12 minutes, flipping once.
- Braise in sauce or gravy at 300°F for 1-2 hours until very tender.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10-15 minutes, shaking basket occasionally for even browning.
Flats
- Braise in liquid at 300°F for 1-2 hours until meat is tender.
- Grill over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, taking care not to burn.
- Bake at 375°F for 30-40 minutes until cooked through.
- Pan fry for 10-15 minutes, turning frequently to avoid burning.
- Air fry at 400°F for 12-18 minutes, shaking basket periodically.
Use a food thermometer to ensure drumettes and flats reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Where to Buy Chicken Drumettes and Flats
There are many options for purchasing drumettes and flats, including:
- Grocery stores – sold frozen, chilled, or fresh in the chicken/poultry section.
- Warehouse clubs – bulk packs available frozen or fresh.
- Butcher shops – may have them fresh behind the counter.
- Online – can buy directly from online retailers and have them shipped.
- Farmers markets – local farms may sell fresh chicken parts.
- Asian/Hispanic markets – often have great deals on wings and chicken parts.
For the best quality and value, look for packs without signs of freezing/thawing damage and with the latest sell-by dates. Prices and availability for individual drumettes and flats vs. whole wings will vary by location.
How Long Do They Last?
Properly stored, fresh chicken drumettes and flats will last 1-2 days in the refrigerator. For maximum freshness and quality, cook within 1 day of purchasing.
To extend the shelf life, freeze immediately in airtight packaging for 2-6 months. Thaw frozen drumettes and flats in the fridge before using.
Cooked drumettes and flats will keep 3-4 days refrigerated. They can also be frozen for 2-3 months.
Storage Tips
- Store fresh drumettes/flats on a plate covered with plastic wrap in the fridge.
- Freeze raw in freezer bags with the air pressed out.
- Thaw frozen cuts slowly in the refrigerator, not at room temp.
- Refrigerate cooked drumettes/flats in sealed containers.
- Use cooked within 3-4 days and raw within 1-2 days.
Substitutions
If you need an alternative for drumettes or flats, try the following:
Instead of Drumettes
- Chicken tenders or nuggets
- Boneless chicken thighs
- Cubed chicken breast
- Small chicken drumsticks
Instead of Flats
- Chicken thighs or boneless thighs
- Cubed chicken breast
- Chicken tenders or nuggets
- Turkey cutlets
Adjust cooking times and methods as the substitution ingredients may have slightly different textures. Bone-in parts like thighs will require longer cooking than boneless.
Common Questions
Are drumettes and flats different names for the same thing?
No, drumettes and flats refer to two different sections of the chicken wing. Drumettes are the upper section attached to the body. Flats are the middle part between the drumette and wing tip.
Which is better, drumettes or flats?
This is a matter of personal preference. Many people prefer drumettes because they are juicier and contain more meat. However, flats have a great texture when cooked crispy for dishes like Buffalo wings.
Can you make Buffalo wings with drumettes?
Yes, drumettes work well for Buffalo wings. Fry or bake them until crispy, then toss in Buffalo sauce. Flats are traditional but drumettes will be meatier.
Are drumettes and flats white or dark chicken meat?
Chicken wings contain both white and dark meat. The drumette is white meat while the flat is darker meat with more connective tissue, similar to a thigh.
Why are chicken wings so expensive now?
Chicken wing prices have risen dramatically in recent years due to a combination of factors:
- Increased demand – chicken wings have become extremely popular.
- Lower supply – less wings are available as demand for breast meat rises.
- Higher production costs – for housing, chicken feed, labor, etc.
- Restaurant prices influence retail – most wings sold through food service.
Conclusion
Chicken drumettes and flats are tasty and versatile wing sections perfect for frying, grilling, baking and more. Drumettes contain juicy white meat while flats have more connective tissue for collagen and flavor. Both make excellent starters, snacks, or dinner entrees. Look for these chicken parts fresh or frozen and experiment with new ways to enjoy their distinctive textures and flavors.