These Coconut Lime Chicken Drumsticks are a vibrant and flavorful dish that will transport you to a tropical paradise. The chicken is marinated in a tantalizing blend of coconut milk, lime juice and zest, garlic, ginger, and coconut aminos, creating a symphony of sweet, savory, and citrusy notes. After a leisurely soak in this aromatic bath, the drumsticks are roasted to perfection, resulting in crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. A final sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbaceousness, completing this delectable dish. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply seeking a flavorful weeknight meal, these Coconut Lime Chicken Drumsticks are sure to impress your taste buds.
In the annals of culinary history, the genesis of this recipe can be traced back to a serendipitous encounter on a sun-kissed beach in the Caribbean. As I strolled along the white-sand shores, the intoxicating aroma of grilled chicken wafted through the air, tantalizing my senses. Curiosity piqued, I approached a nearby vendor and inquired about the secret behind their irresistible creation. The vendor, a seasoned grill master with a jovial spirit, shared his culinary wisdom, revealing the harmonious blend of coconut milk, lime, and ginger that imparted such exquisite flavors to the chicken. Inspired by this revelation, I embarked on a culinary journey to recreate this tantalizing dish in my own kitchen, experimenting with various marinades and roasting techniques until I stumbled upon the perfect alchemy of ingredients and cooking methods. And so, my Coconut Lime Chicken Drumsticks were born, a testament to the power of culinary exploration and the enduring allure of tropical flavors.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 40 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
8 chicken drumsticks
1/2 cup coconut milk
Zest and juice of 2 limes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon coconut aminos
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine coconut milk, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, coconut aminos, ginger, salt, and black pepper.
Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the marinated chicken drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy, turning once halfway through cooking.
Sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.
Enjoy your Coconut Lime Chicken Drumsticks!
Why It Works
Coconut milk provides a rich, creamy base for the marinade, infusing the chicken with tropical flavors and keeping it moist during roasting.
Lime juice and zest add a vibrant citrusy brightness that balances the sweetness of the coconut milk and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Garlic and ginger introduce aromatic depth and warmth, creating a complex and satisfying taste experience.
Coconut aminos, a naturally sweet and savory sauce, adds umami and further enhances the flavor of the chicken.
Roasting the chicken at a high temperature ensures crispy skin while the marinade keeps the meat tender and juicy.