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chicken drumsticks.

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Recipes with chicken drumsticks + Add to pantry

SERVING

CALORIES

161

PROTEIN

18.3g

CARBS

FAT

9.2g

FIBER

NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g

Everything in this ingredient.

MACRONUTRIENTS

Calories161kcal—

Protein18.3g37%

Carbohydrates0g0%

Fiber0g0%

Sugar0g0%

Total fat9.2g12%

Saturated fat2.6g13%

Trans fat0g—

Cholesterol82mg27%

Water71.5g—

MINERALS

Sodium84mg4%

Potassium215mg5%

Calcium11mg1%

Iron0.90mg5%

Magnesium19mg5%

Phosphorus157mg13%

Zinc1.6mg15%

Copper0.06mg7%

Manganese0.02mg1%

Selenium18.5µg34%

VITAMINS

Vitamin A15µg2%

Vitamin C0mg0%

Vitamin D0.10µg1%

Vitamin E0.20mg1%

Vitamin K1.5µg1%

Thiamin (B1)0.06mg5%

Riboflavin (B2)0.18mg14%

Niacin (B3)5.2mg33%

Pantothenic acid (B5)1.1mg22%

Vitamin B60.30mg18%

Folate (B9)6.0µg2%

Vitamin B120.45µg19%

%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.

MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS

How much is what.

1 cup140g

1 tablespoon8.8g

1 teaspoon2.9g

1 ml0.6g

1 liter583.3g

1 piece90g

HEALTH BENEFITS

Why eat it.

✓Excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle building, repair, and overall body function.
✓Rich in niacin (Vitamin B3), which aids in converting food into energy and supports nervous system health.
✓Provides selenium, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports a healthy immune system.
✓Contains essential minerals like phosphorus and zinc, which are vital for bone health, cell growth, and immune function.

COOKING TIPS

In the kitchen.

1For crispy skin, pat the drumsticks completely dry with a paper towel before seasoning and cooking. Roasting or air frying at a high temperature (around 400°F or 200°C) enhances crispiness.
2Always cook chicken to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the drumstick, avoiding the bone.
3Drumsticks are ideal for braising, stewing, or slow cooking as the dark meat and connective tissue break down to become exceptionally tender and flavorful.
4Marinating drumsticks for at least 30 minutes to several hours before cooking adds significant flavor and helps to tenderize the meat.

STORAGE

Keep it fresh.

Store raw chicken drumsticks in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) in their original packaging or a sealed container on the bottom shelf to prevent drips, and use within 1-2 days.
For long-term storage, freeze drumsticks at 0°F (-18°C) in an airtight freezer bag or vacuum-sealed package for up to 9 months for best quality.
Thaw frozen drumsticks safely in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave; never thaw at room temperature.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Are chicken drumsticks healthy?

Yes, chicken drumsticks are a healthy source of high-quality protein and essential micronutrients like niacin and selenium. While they contain more fat than chicken breasts, they provide vital minerals such as zinc and phosphorus which support bone health and immune function.

How much protein is in chicken drumsticks?

Chicken drumsticks contain approximately 18.3 grams of protein per 100 grams of meat. This makes them an excellent food choice for muscle building, tissue repair, and maintaining overall body function.

Are chicken drumsticks keto-friendly?

Yes, chicken drumsticks are highly keto-friendly as they contain 0 grams of carbohydrates. Their moderate fat content (9.2g per 100g) also makes them a preferred choice over leaner cuts for those following a high-fat, low-carb ketogenic diet.

What is the safe internal temperature for cooking chicken drumsticks?

Chicken drumsticks must reach a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe for consumption. However, because drumsticks contain more connective tissue, many chefs recommend cooking them to 175°F-185°F for a more tender, fall-off-the-bone texture.

Should I cook chicken drumsticks with the skin on or off?

Cooking with the skin on helps retain moisture and adds flavor, but it also increases the calorie and fat content. For the healthiest option, you can cook them with the skin on to keep the meat juicy and then remove the skin before eating.

How long do raw chicken drumsticks last in the fridge?

Raw chicken drumsticks should be stored in the coldest part of your refrigerator and used within 1 to 2 days of purchase. If you do not plan to cook them within this timeframe, they should be moved to the freezer.

Can I freeze chicken drumsticks?

Yes, chicken drumsticks freeze exceptionally well. When stored in airtight packaging or vacuum-sealed bags, they will maintain their best quality for about 9 months, though they remain safe to eat indefinitely if kept constantly at 0°F.

Are chicken drumsticks gluten-free?

Plain, raw chicken drumsticks are naturally gluten-free. However, you must check the labels on pre-marinated or breaded drumsticks, as these often contain wheat-based thickeners, soy sauce, or breadcrumbs that contain gluten.

How can I tell if chicken drumsticks have spoiled?

Spoiled drumsticks will typically have a sour or ammonia-like odor, a slimy or sticky texture, and may develop a greyish or greenish tint. If any of these signs are present, the meat should be discarded immediately.

Are chicken drumsticks good for weight loss?

Chicken drumsticks can be effective for weight loss because their high protein content helps you feel full longer. To keep calories low, it is best to prepare them by grilling, baking, or air-frying rather than deep-frying, and to consume them without the skin.

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