9 Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Drumsticks Recipes

Do you want to turn simple chicken drumsticks into something amazing with a cast iron skillet? I have nine great cast iron skillet chicken drumsticks recipes just for you. You’ll love the crispy herb-roasted and tangy barbecue ones. They bring a lot of flavor and texture to your table.

As a cook, I’ve found out that the best way to cook drumsticks is in a seasoned cast iron skillet. These skillets cook the chicken perfectly, making the skin crispy and the meat inside juicy. They’re also strong – did you hear that some ceramic electric skillets are 400% more long-lasting than regular non-stick pans?

I’ll walk you through each recipe with easy steps and great tips. Whether you need fast dinners or love trying new tastes, these drumstick recipes will win you over. Let’s start making some delicious meals!

Key Takeaways:

• Cast iron skillets are perfect for cooking chicken drumsticks
• These recipes have a wide range of flavors from traditional to international
• It’s vital to season and care for your cast iron skillet well
• Every recipe comes with detailed steps for perfect cooking
• You’ll also get tips for crispy skin and tender meat
• These recipes work for both new and skilled chefs

Introduction to Cast Iron Skillet Cooking

Cast iron skillet cooking is a classic way to make your food taste great. My favorite part is how it can be used in so many ways. For instance, it’s amazing for cooking up chicken drumsticks that are crispy on the outside and tender inside.

Benefits of Using a Cast Iron Skillet

A cast iron skillet is great for cooking chicken drumsticks because of how it spreads heat. This makes the meat nice and juicy on the inside but crispy outside. Also, it can easily move from your stove to your oven, which fits many recipes.

• Even heat distribution
• Versatile for stovetop and oven use
• Adds iron to your food
• Naturally non-stick when seasoned properly

Seasoning and Maintaining Your Cast Iron Skillet

Seasoning your cast iron skillet is important for keeping it in good shape. It not only makes the food not stick, but it also protects it from rust. To do this, follow these easy steps. After cooking, just use hot water for cleaning and dry it right away. Don’t forget to lightly oil it before you put it away.

Essential Ingredients for Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Drumsticks

I enjoy making chicken drumsticks in my cast iron skillet. The secret to tasty skillet-cooked drumsticks is in the ingredients. Let’s go over what you’ll require for delectable chicken drumsticks.

Begin with 1.5 to 2 pounds of fresh chicken drumsticks. They offer the right mix of meat and crisp skin. You’ll also need 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper for seasoning. These essentials boost the chicken’s own tastes.

Want to make your meal even better? Try including 2 cloves of minced garlic for a hint of spice, 2 tablespoons of melted butter for flavor, and the juice of one lemon for a fresh twist. Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can bring extra flavor to your chicken drumsticks.

With these items, you’re set to make tasty cast iron skillet chicken drumsticks. Remember, the great thing about skillet cooking is how flexible it is. So, be bold and try out different spices and marinades according to your preferences.

Classic Herb-Roasted Chicken Drumsticks

Making herb-roasted chicken in a cast iron skillet is a favorite of mine. It’s a tasty, easy meal perfect for the family. This recipe is for 4 servings. But it only takes about 30 minutes to cook.

Ingredients and Measurements

Here’s what you’ll need for this tasty dish:

• 1.5 to 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the drumsticks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the drumsticks for 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown.
5. Sprinkle fresh herbs over the chicken.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
7. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Baste with melted butter and herbs halfway through cooking.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Skin

To get crispy chicken skin, dry the drumsticks after you wash them. Also, make sure the skillet is hot before you add the chicken. For a tastier dish, add minced garlic or lemon zest to the herb mix. If you’re looking for more great skillet recipes, check out this healthy beef and broccoli stir fry.

Spicy Cajun-Style Drumsticks

I love making Cajun chicken drumsticks in my cast iron skillet. This recipe brings Louisiana’s bold taste to your table. We will look at this spicy dish. It’s easy and will be a family favorite.

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

To make the Cajun seasoning, mix:

• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Start by drying the drumsticks with paper towels. Drier drumsticks allow the seasoning to stick better. This also makes the skin crispier. Mix the Cajun seasoning with salt and pepper. Then, coat the drumsticks with this mix.

Warm your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil. Once the oil is hot, place the drumsticks in the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes per side until they’re golden. Next, lower the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 15-20 more minutes. Remember to turn them now and then. Stop when the chicken reaches 165°F inside.

These drumsticks go great with something cool on the side. Think coleslaw or a fresh salad. For a full meal, pair them with this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry.

This makes 4 servings and is ready in 30 minutes. Each serving has 258 calories, so it’s a good, low-calorie meal.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks

Cooking garlic parmesan chicken in a skillet is my favorite. It’s a hit with everyone and simple to cook. I’ll share with you the ingredients and steps to make this tasty dish.

Ingredient List and Measurements

Here’s what you need for chicken drumsticks:

• 1.5 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Process

To make great garlic parmesan chicken drumsticks, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the drumsticks with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
3. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
8. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the chicken before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These drumsticks go great with pasta or vegetables. For a full meal, serve with a shrimp and broccoli stir-fry. Your guests will love the mix of flavors!

Honey Mustard Glazed Drumsticks

Making honey mustard chicken in a cast iron skillet is one of my favorites. It’s not only very tasty but also quick to make. The glaze on the chicken, when cooked right, caramelizes into a lovely, sweet, and tangy crust. This makes it a dish that every person at the table will enjoy.

For this dish, gather these ingredients:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Start by making the glaze. Mix together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and paprika. Honey gives sweetness, mustard provides a bit of bite, and apple cider vinegar makes everything come together. It also helps make the chicken juicy and flavorful.

Warm up your cast iron skillet over medium-high. Season the drumsticks with salt and pepper. Next, brown each side for about 5 minutes. This gives the chicken a delicious outer crust.

Then, brush the drumsticks with the glaze. Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let the drumsticks cook for 20-25 minutes. Turn them every 5 minutes and add more glaze each time. This way, the chicken becomes tender and the glaze gets a beautiful caramelized finish.

The chicken is ready when its inside is 165°F (74°C). Let it sit for a little bit before you serve. If you want more easy and tasty dishes, take a look at this shrimp and dumpling stir-fry recipe.

Lemon and Rosemary Infused Chicken Drumsticks

Making tasty meals in my skillet is a joy. This lemon rosemary chicken recipe shines with lively citrus and fragrant herbs. It’s a treat for your taste buds you don’t want to miss.

Ingredients and Proportions

You will need the following for this dish:

• 3 pounds chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley

Cooking Method

First, make the marinade by mixing the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and parsley. Then, marinate the drumsticks in this mixture and chill for 2 hours. Preheat your oven to 400°F before cooking.

Next, sear the drumsticks in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side. Finally, bake in the oven for around 40 minutes. Make sure the chicken’s internal temperature gets to 165°F.

Flavor Profile and Pairing Ideas

This lemon rosemary chicken is bursting with fresh flavors. The garlic gives it a savory edge. Lemon zest and rosemary make it vibrant and earthy. It tastes great with roasted potatoes or a fresh salad. Adding steamed veggies or bread on the side completes the meal perfectly.

Barbecue-Inspired Skillet Drumsticks

Making BBQ chicken drumsticks in a cast iron skillet is my favorite. It’s fast and gives the tasty BBQ flavor without a grill. Six drumsticks come out of this recipe, perfect for three people.

You’ll need these ingredients:

• 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon each of chili powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper

First, mix the spices in a bowl and coat the drumsticks. Then, heat some oil in your skillet. Put the drumsticks in and cook until they’re browned, about 5 minutes on each side.

Lower the heat and add the BBQ sauce. Let everything simmer for 20-25 minutes. Keep turning the drumsticks. They’re ready when the meat reaches 165°F inside.

These drumsticks go great with coleslaw or grilled corn. The skillet makes a crispy outside with tender meat inside. They’re perfect for sharing and will surely be a hit in your home!

Mediterranean-Style Chicken Drumsticks

I enjoy cooking up Mediterranean chicken in my skillet. This dish has all the flavors of the Mediterranean. It’s perfect for three people and takes an hour to make.

Key Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• 6 chicken drumsticks (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 cup kalamata olives
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Technique

First, season the chicken drumsticks with salt and pepper. Then, in a skillet, warm up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the drumsticks for 2 minutes on each side until golden. Next, add the garlic, lemon juice, oregano, and rosemary. Put in the olives. Finally, bake in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes covered, and 20-30 minutes uncovered until the chicken is 165°F inside.

Serving Ideas

Enjoy your Mediterranean-style chicken with a Greek salad and tzatziki sauce. Add roasted veggies or Greek potatoes for extra flavor. A French Chardonnay is a good wine to pair. Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months.

Asian-Fusion Drumsticks with Soy and Ginger

I love making Asian dishes, and these drumsticks in a skillet are always a hit. They mix soy sauce, ginger, and honey to make a great blend of salty and sweet. Your taste buds will dance with joy.

Here’s what you need for this tasty recipe:

• 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 lbs)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Start by making the marinade. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl. Then, put the drumsticks in a ziplock bag and add the marinade. Let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to 4 hours.

When it’s cooking time, warm up your cast iron skillet on medium-high. Put your marinated drumsticks in and cook for 25-30 minutes, turning them as they cook. The sauce will turn into a shiny glaze.

The drumsticks should be 165°F inside when they’re ready. Serve them hot, with sesame seeds and green onions on top. This gives the dish a special Asian touch.

This recipe makes 4 servings, with 2 drumsticks in each. Try out this great mix of tastes from your trusted skillet!

Crispy Buttermilk-Marinated Drumsticks

Making crispy chicken drumsticks is a joy in my skillet. It really makes you want that perfect crunch. I will tell you how to create these amazing drumsticks.

Marinating Process

The secret behind flavorful drumsticks is the marinade. Start with 1½ cups of buttermilk, then add 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and black pepper. This makes the meat soft and tasty.

Then, I coat 7-8 drumsticks with kosher salt before soaking them in the mix. Let them sit in the fridge overnight for the best taste.

Cooking Instructions

To cook, first preheat your oven to 400°F. Then, heat oil in your cast iron skillet on medium-high. Dredge the drumsticks in seasoned flour after taking them out of the marinade.

Fry the drumsticks in the skillet, about 5 minutes on each side, until golden. The last step is baking them for 30-40 minutes or until they reach 165°F inside.

Achieving the Perfect Crunch

For the perfect crunch after cooking, let the drumsticks sit for 5 minutes. This makes the skin even crispier. Top them with fresh parsley for a burst of color and taste.

These drumsticks are ideal for either a family meal or a game day snack. They serve 2-3 and have about 320 calories per serving.

Tips for Perfect Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Drumsticks Every Time

I’ve cooked many chicken drumsticks in my cast iron skillet. I’m eager to share my top tips for perfect results. First, preheat your skillet every time. This step guarantees even cooking and crispy skin that’s hard to resist. I recommend heating my 12.5″ skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.

When seasoning, drying off the drumsticks is important before spices. This makes them brown better and the seasonings stick. I love to use seasoned salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and herbs. But you can play around with spice mixes as drumsticks are very versatile.

To get the chicken just right, a meat thermometer is a must. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This usually means cooking for about 30 minutes. After cooking, let the drumsticks sit for 5-10 minutes. This step makes the meat juicier and more tender.

Lastly, cleaning your skillet well after use is vital. It helps keep the seasoning and prevents rust. With these steps and your trusty skillet, you’re ready to make meals that everyone will enjoy.