Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks: Juicy & Easy!

Are you tired of dry, disappointing chicken drumsticks? I know I was! It felt like a culinary gamble every time I cooked them. But those days are over. This Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks recipe delivers incredibly juicy, flavorful chicken every single time. Get ready to say goodbye to dry chicken forever!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

This recipe isn’t just about solving the dry chicken problem; it’s about creating a dish that’s:

• Incredibly Flavorful: The creamy tomato sauce is rich, savory, and perfectly seasoned.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild tomato flavor and tender chicken make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
• Budget-Friendly: Chicken drumsticks are an affordable protein, making this a great meal for feeding a family.
• No More Dry Chicken! The secret to juicy drumsticks is revealed!

Gathering Your Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather the ingredients. This recipe uses a combination of fresh and pantry-staple ingredients to create a deeply flavorful and comforting meal. The base of the flavor comes from the aromatic vegetables and the spices, while the tomatoes and cream provide richness and depth. Let’s break down each ingredient and talk about why it’s important.

• Chicken Drumsticks: The star of the show! Aim for about 4 medium-sized drumsticks. They are more budget friendly than other cuts of chicken.
• Olive Oil: This is used for browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables. It adds a subtle fruity flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients. Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for the best flavor.
• Onion: A foundational aromatic that adds sweetness and depth to the sauce. Yellow or white onions work best.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent, savory flavor. Mince it finely to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the sauce.
• Red Bell Pepper: Contributes sweetness and a pop of color to the dish. You could also use yellow or orange bell pepper, but red offers the sweetest flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide the base for the sauce. Make sure to use undrained tomatoes for maximum flavor and moisture.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and flavor to the sauce. Low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy and luxurious. For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as thick.
• Paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor and beautiful color to the sauce.
• Dried Thyme: Provides a subtle earthy, herbal note. Fresh thyme can also be used; just double the amount.
• Cooked Rice: For serving. Rice is the perfect accompaniment to soak up all that delicious creamy tomato sauce.

  Consider trying this recipe with golden rice pilaf.

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped for garnish. Adds a fresh, vibrant finishing touch.

Crafting Your Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks: Step-by-Step

Now for the fun part! This recipe is straightforward, but each step is important for achieving juicy, flavorful chicken. Don’t be intimidated; just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time. The most important part is browning the chicken and not overcooking it! Ready? Let’s get cooking!

1. Season the Drumsticks: Start by generously seasoning the chicken drumsticks with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy! This is your opportunity to build flavor from the very beginning. Make sure to coat all sides of the drumsticks evenly.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering (but not smoking!), carefully place the seasoned drumsticks in the skillet. The key here is to brown the chicken on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step is crucial for locking in the juices and preventing the chicken from drying out during the simmering process. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, brown the chicken in batches. Remove the browned chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the same skillet (don’t wipe out the flavorful bits left from browning the chicken!). Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Once the vegetables are softened, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Create the Tomato Sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and chicken broth. Stir in the paprika and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together and create a richer, more complex sauce.
5. Simmer the Chicken: Nestle the browned chicken drumsticks into the simmering tomato sauce. Make sure the drumsticks are mostly submerged in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked safely and perfectly.
6. Add the Cream: Remove the chicken drumsticks from the skillet and set aside. Stir in the heavy cream into the sauce. Simmer for a couple of minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir constantly to prevent the cream from scorching.
7. Coat and Serve: Return the chicken drumsticks to the skillet, coating them in the creamy tomato sauce. Serve the chicken over cooked rice, allowing the rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks Every Time

Want to take your Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks to ensure success every time:

• Don’t skip the browning step! This is the key to juicy chicken.
• Use a meat thermometer. It’s the most accurate way to determine if the chicken is cooked through.
• Don’t overcook the chicken. Overcooked chicken is dry chicken.
• Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Taste the sauce and add more salt, pepper, or other spices as needed.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

What to Serve With Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks

These Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks are delicious served over rice, but they also pair well with other sides, such as:

• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• A simple green salad
• Crusty bread for soaking up the sauce

  This recipe pairs wonderfully with fresh bread, such as what you may find in this savory sausage and bread bake, so you never waste any of the delicious sauce.

Your Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks Questions Answered (FAQ)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, you can! Chicken thighs are a great substitute. They are just as flavorful and tend to stay juicy as well. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I use a different type of tomato?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of tomatoes. Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce will also work well. Just be sure to adjust the amount of chicken broth accordingly to achieve the desired sauce consistency.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken drumsticks as instructed, then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the sautéed vegetables, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, paprika, and thyme. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through. Stir in the heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze this recipe. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Enjoy Your Homemade Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks!

There you have it – a foolproof recipe for Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks that guarantees juicy, flavorful chicken every time. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. So, ditch the dry chicken and give this recipe a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And when you do, leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!