Drumsticks are a versatile and delicious part of the chicken that can be prepared in many different ways. When thinking about what goes well with drumsticks, there are a few key considerations:
Cooking Methods
The cooking method used for drumsticks can significantly impact what flavors pair well with them. Some popular cooking methods for drumsticks include:
- Baked – Drumsticks baked plain or with a breadcrumb coating tend to be mild in flavor. They pair well with lighter seasonings and sauces.
- Grilled – Grilling gives drumsticks a smoky, charred flavor. Bolder seasonings like barbecue sauce and hot sauces work well with grilled drumsticks.
- Fried – Deep fried drumsticks have a crispy, juicy texture. Dipping sauces and ranch dressings complement fried drumsticks nicely.
- Slow cooked – Slow cooking drumsticks makes them fall-off-the-bone tender. Hearty seasonings like garlic, herbs, and paprika add flavor.
- Air fried – Air frying yields crispy drumsticks similar to deep frying. Air fried drumsticks pair well with lighter dips and dressings.
The cooking method will impact what sides, sauces, and seasonings enhance the drumsticks best.
Sides
Having an appropriate side dish or two is key to a delicious drumstick meal. Here are some excellent side options:
Vegetables
- Roasted vegetables like potatoes, carrots, cauliflower, or brussels sprouts.
- Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
- Garden or caesar salad.
- Coleslaw with a vinegar-based dressing.
Grains
- Rice pilaf or seasoned rice.
- Pasta salad, macaroni and cheese, or buttered noodles.
- Rolls, biscuits, or corn bread.
- Polenta or grits.
Legumes
- Baked beans.
- Black eyed peas.
- Red beans and rice.
Having a starchy vegetable, grain, or legume side helps to make the meal feel complete and balances out the chicken.
Sauces and Condiments
Sauces and condiments can significantly enhance the flavor of drumsticks. Some options include:
- Barbecue sauce – classics like honey BBQ or spicy chili BBQ work great.
- Ranch dressing – excellent for dipping especially with fried drumsticks.
- Blue cheese dressing – pairs nicely with hot sauce coated drumsticks.
- Honey mustard – sweet and tangy on grilled or baked drumsticks.
- Hot sauce – adds spicy kick to all types of cooked drumsticks.
- Salsa – fresh tomato salsa livens up grilled or baked drumsticks.
Condiments like ketchup, mayonnaise, and horseradish sauce also complement drumsticks depending on cooking method and seasoning.
Seasonings
Seasoning drumsticks before cooking infuses flavor right into the meat. Some tasty seasoning options include:
- Paprika – smoky, mild red pepper flavor.
- Garlic powder – aromatic garlic flavor.
- Onion powder – savory onion taste.
- Dried oregano – earthy and aromatic herb flavor.
- Lemon pepper – bright citrus and pepper notes.
- Cajun seasoning – bold blend of paprika, garlic, onion, oregano, cayenne.
- Italian seasoning – basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme.
Seasonings can be combined into a drumstick rub or marinade for maximum flavor impact.
Putting it All Together
Using complementary cooking methods, sides, sauces and seasonings results in a delicious drumstick meal. Here are a few example pairings:
| Drumstick Style | Side Dish | Sauce | Seasoning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baked | Roasted potatoes | Ranch dressing | Lemon pepper |
| Grilled | Pasta salad | Honey mustard | Garlic powder, paprika |
| Fried | Coleslaw | Blue cheese dressing | Cajun seasoning |
| Slow cooked | Rice pilaf | Barbecue sauce | Onion powder, oregano |
With the right combination of cooking method, sides, sauces and seasonings, drumsticks can be the star of a mouthwatering meal. Get creative mixing and matching different flavors to discover your perfect drumstick pairings.
Conclusion
Drumsticks deserve a place in the spotlight for their delicious flavor and versatility. By selecting complementary sides, sauces, and seasonings, you can make baked, grilled, fried or slow cooked drumsticks really shine. Vegetables, grains and legume sides provide contrasting flavors and textures. Sauces like barbecue, ranch and honey mustard add zest. Seasonings infuse right into the chicken when rubbed on or marinated. With so many possibilities, it’s easy to create amazing drumstick dishes the whole family will love.