Brined Spicy Drumsticks

If there’s one dish that embodies comfort and flavour, it’s Brined Spicy drumsticks. But when marinated in a brine for 24 hours and then coated with a bold spice rub, they ascend to a whole new level of culinary excellence. This method ensures moist, tender meat bursting with layers of flavour in every bite.

The Magic of the Brine

Brining is the secret weapon for juicy chicken. A simple solution of water, salt, sugar, and aromatics such as garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns works wonders. As the drumsticks soak for a full day, the brine infuses moisture and seasoning deep into the meat. The result? Chicken that’s not only tender but also seasoned all the way through, making each bite succulent and satisfying.

Spice Rub: The Ultimate Flavour Boost

After brining, the drumsticks are patted dry—an essential step to ensure the spice rub clings to the skin and forms a beautiful crust. The spice mix can be tailored to your taste, but a classic combination might include smoked paprika for depth, garlic powder for savouriness, cumin for warmth, and a touch of cayenne for heat. A sprinkle of brown sugar adds caramelisation and balance, while salt and black pepper bring it all together.

Baking to Perfection

The drumsticks are arranged on a wire rack to allow even air circulation during baking. A hot oven (about 200°C/400°F) ensures the skin crisps up beautifully while locking in the juices. After 35-40 minutes, you’ll have golden, aromatic drumsticks with irresistible charred edges.

Serve and Savour

Pair these brined spicy drumsticks with roasted vegetables or a zesty coleslaw for a complete meal. They’re also perfect for game days or casual gatherings, served alongside a creamy dipping sauce or hot honey drizzle.

This method transforms humble chicken drumsticks into a gourmet experience that are brined spicy drumsticks —simple yet extraordinary. If you haven’t brined and spiced your drumsticks before, give it a go. Your taste buds will thank you!

Brined Spicy Drumsticks

These brined spicy drumsticks are juicy, tender, and packed with flavour, thanks to a 24-hour brine and a bold spice rub. The brining process ensures moist, seasoned meat, while the spice mix creates a crispy, aromatic crust. Perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners, this recipe is simple yet utterly satisfying.

4.95 from 37 votes

Print Facebook Pinterest Twitter Add to CollectionCollections

Course: Main Dish, Side Dish

Cuisine: British

Keyword: Bake, Brine, Chicken, Chicken Drumsticks, Herbs, Spice

Prep Time: 25 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes minutes

Brining: 1 day day

Total Time: 1 day day 1 hour hour 5 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 People

Calories: 445kcal

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

 

MetricImperial

For the Brine:

• 2 litre water
• 1/4 cup salt
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 2 cloves garlic crushed
• 2 leaves bay
• 1 tbsp coriander seeds
• 1 tsp black peppercorns

For the Spice Rub:

• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper optional
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Drumsticks:

• 12 large chicken drumsticks
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

• In a large bowl or container, combine water, salt, sugar, garlic, bay leaves, coriander seeds and peppercorns. Stir until the salt and sugar dissolve.
  2 litre water, 1/4 cup salt, 2 tbsp sugar, 2 cloves garlic, 2 leaves bay, 1 tbsp coriander seeds, 1 tsp black peppercorns
• Submerge the drumsticks in the brine, cover, and refrigerate for 24 hours.
  12 large chicken drumsticks
• Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and set aside.
• Remove the drumsticks from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels. Discard the brine.
• In a small bowl, mix all the spice rub ingredients.
  2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Lightly coat the drumsticks with olive oil, then rub the spice mix evenly over each one.
  1 tbsp olive oil
• Arrange the drumsticks on the wire rack and bake for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
• Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favourite sides and dips.

Notes

Tips:

– For extra crispy skin, broil the drumsticks for the final 3-5 minutes.

– These brined spicy drumsticks pair well with roasted sweet potatoes, coleslaw, or a tangy yogurt dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 445kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 41g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 209mg | Sodium: 7629mg | Potassium: 599mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 745IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 74mg | Iron: 3mg