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Cilantro Lime Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

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4.1 from 11 reviews

This Cilantro Lime Chicken Drumsticks recipe offers a zesty, flavorful meal featuring tender chicken infused with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a spicy kick from cayenne and crushed red pepper. Perfectly cooked either in an Instant Pot for quick pressure cooking or baked in the oven for a crispy finish, these drumsticks make an easy and delicious dinner option for the whole family.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Drumsticks

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 6 chicken drumsticks
  • 4 cloves garlic, fresh and minced
  • 1 tsp crushed red pepper
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth (for Instant Pot method only)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Instant Pot: Add the olive oil to the Instant Pot and press the 'Sauté' function. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken drumsticks.
  2. Brown the Drumsticks: Sprinkle the minced garlic, crushed red pepper, and cayenne pepper evenly over the drumsticks. Sauté and brown the chicken for about 2 minutes on each side to develop flavor.
  3. Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in the lime juice, chopped cilantro, and chicken broth into the Instant Pot with the browned chicken. Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
  4. Pressure Cook: Lock the Instant Pot lid in place and set the valve to 'Sealing.' Cook on high pressure for 9 minutes to tenderize the chicken and infuse flavors.
  5. Release Pressure Naturally: Once cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the lid.
  6. Broil for Finish: Transfer the cooked drumsticks to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for about 3-5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.
  7. Oven Method Preparation: If opting for oven cooking, preheat the oven to 375°F. Skip the chicken broth for this method.
  8. Marinate the Chicken: Place the drumsticks into a zipper bag along with garlic, crushed red pepper, cayenne pepper, olive oil, lime juice, and cilantro. Shake well to coat all pieces evenly. You may need two bags depending on batch size.
  9. Bake the Drumsticks: Lightly oil a 9x13-inch baking pan and arrange the drumsticks in a single layer, pouring any remaining marinade over the top. Bake for 30 minutes, then use tongs to turn the drumsticks.
  10. Continue Baking: Bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Notes

  • For best results, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
  • The Instant Pot method is faster and yields extra tender meat, while the oven method creates a crispier exterior.
  • You can adjust the level of cayenne and crushed red pepper to suit your preferred spice tolerance.
  • Broiling is only necessary for the Instant Pot method to crisp the skin.
  • Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Serve with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Find it online: https://glowcooks.com/cilantro-lime-chicken-drumsticks-recipe/