Corn Flake Drumsticks Bake: A Quick and Crispy Southern-Style Chicken Recipe
When you’re craving something crispy, savory, and comforting, this Corn Flake Drumsticks Bake is the perfect dish to satisfy those cravings. A favorite in my family for years, it takes just a few ingredients and a little bit of time to create a Southern-inspired, oven-baked chicken that tastes just like deep-fried chicken—without the mess. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy recipe will soon become a household favorite. The crunchy cornflake coating combined with the tender, juicy chicken drumsticks results in a meal that’s sure to please everyone.
Recipe Overview:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Chicken Thigh & Leg
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Beginner Cook
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Ground cayenne pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Chicken drumsticks | 8 |
| Cornflake crumbs | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 714 |
| Total Fat | 44.7g |
| Saturated Fat | 13.3g |
| Cholesterol | 375.7mg |
| Sodium | 1027mg |
| Carbohydrates | 6.8g |
| Fiber | 0.3g |
| Sugars | 0.9g |
| Protein | 66.7g |
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it reaches the right temperature for evenly baked, crispy drumsticks. -
Prepare the Roasting Pan
Line a shallow roasting pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Spray the foil lightly with cooking oil spray to prevent the chicken from sticking during baking. -
Prepare the Cornflake Coating
In a large bowl, combine the cornflake crumbs, salt, grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and ground cayenne pepper. Stir the ingredients together until the mixture is evenly distributed. The cornflakes will form the crispy, crunchy coating for the chicken, while the spices add a kick of flavor. -
Prepare the Egg Wash
In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs. This egg wash will help the cornflake mixture adhere to the drumsticks, creating that signature crispiness. -
Coat the Drumsticks
Take each chicken drumstick and dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Next, roll the drumstick in the cornflake mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well to the chicken. Repeat this process for each drumstick until they’re all coated. -
Arrange the Drumsticks on the Pan
Place the coated drumsticks onto the prepared roasting pan. Arrange them in a single layer, making sure they’re not crowded so they bake evenly. -
Spray with Cooking Oil
Once the drumsticks are arranged on the pan, spray a light coating of cooking oil spray over the top of the chicken. This helps the crust become golden brown and extra crispy while baking. -
Bake the Drumsticks
Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes. The chicken will cook through and the coating will become golden and crispy. Be sure to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety and perfect doneness. -
Serve and Enjoy
Once the drumsticks are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This simple yet delicious dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Corn Flake Drumsticks Bake combines the best of both worlds—tender, juicy chicken with a crispy, crunchy exterior, all without the hassle of frying. The Parmesan cheese adds a subtle savory richness, while the combination of black and cayenne pepper gives the dish just the right amount of heat. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal prep time. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prepping for the week ahead!
FAQs
Q: Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
A: While this recipe calls for bone-in chicken drumsticks, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts if you prefer. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut you choose.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer for the best crispy results.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the drumsticks, coat them with the cornflake mixture, and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before placing them in the oven for an even bake.
Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: Absolutely! After baking, allow the drumsticks to cool completely before wrapping them tightly and storing them in the freezer. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
With its crispy crust, tender meat, and flavorful seasoning, this Corn Flake Drumsticks Bake is sure to become a family favorite. It’s a no-fuss, flavorful dish that brings the comforting taste of Southern fried chicken without the extra calories or mess. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!
