Creamy Black Pepper Chicken Drumsticks

If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and smiles to the dinner table, you’ve come to the right place! These Creamy Black Pepper Chicken Drumsticks are not just any ordinary chicken recipe. It’s a delightful blend of juicy drumsticks smothered in a rich and creamy black pepper sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, making even a regular evening feel special.

What makes this recipe truly shine is its simplicity. With just one skillet, you’ll have an impressive meal that’s easy enough for a beginner but delicious enough to impress your loved ones. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal cleanup, you’ll whip this up in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and tender chicken are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Versatile Pairing Options: Serve it with orzo, mashed potatoes, or a fresh side salad—whatever fits your mood!
• Impressive Flavor: The combination of black pepper cream cheese and roasted bell peppers creates a dish bursting with flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch throughout the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Creamy Black Pepper Chicken Drumsticks. You might already have many of these staples in your kitchen!

For the Chicken

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

For Cooking

• 1 tbsp salted butter (for frying)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Sauce

• 1 package (150 g/5.5 oz) black peppercorn cream cheese (I used Boursin)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 jar (280 g/10 oz) roasted bell peppers (cut into thin slices, excess oil drained)
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp pickled green peppercorns (chopped, optional)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

For Garnish

• Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken thighs or breasts if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Change up the spices: If you want a different kick, try adding smoked paprika or chili flakes for heat.
• Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half or non-dairy milk for the whole milk to reduce calories.

How to Make Creamy Black Pepper Chicken Drumsticks

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 200°C/400°F. Preheating ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and helps achieve that beautiful golden brown color.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a bowl, mix together sweet paprika, dried thyme, garlic powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Rub this flavorful spice blend all over the drumsticks. This step is crucial because it infuses the chicken with delicious flavors before they even hit the skillet.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned drumsticks and sear them until golden brown on both sides—about 8 minutes per side. This step locks in moisture and gives your chicken that irresistible crispy texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Remove the drumsticks from the skillet and set them aside. In that same skillet, add minced garlic and cook it over low heat until soft—about 2 minutes. Next, stir in ground black pepper and optional green peppercorns; sautéing them enhances their flavor. Then add thyme and oregano before pouring in chicken stock—bring this mixture to a boil! Now stir in that creamy black peppercorn cream cheese along with whole milk and roasted bell peppers. Taste it and adjust seasoning if necessary—this sauce should be rich and delectable!

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return your beautifully seared chicken back into the skillet with that luscious sauce. Sprinkle with fresh thyme if you like—it adds a lovely aroma while baking!

Step 6: Bake Until Cooked Through

Finally, place your skillet in the preheated oven and roast everything until the chicken is cooked through—about 30 minutes should do it! The result? Tender drumsticks enveloped in an irresistibly creamy sauce ready to be enjoyed.

Serve these Creamy Black Pepper Chicken Drumsticks alongside orzo, baked potatoes, or a crisp salad for a hearty meal everyone will love! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Black Pepper Chicken Drumsticks

Cooking can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to help you whip up the best Creamy Black Pepper Chicken Drumsticks.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground black pepper and herbs provide a more robust flavor compared to pre-ground versions. This enhances the overall taste of your dish.
• Don’t skip the searing: Searing the chicken drumsticks before baking locks in moisture and creates a delicious golden crust, making your dish even more appealing.
• Customize the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to adjust the amount of cream cheese or milk. This way, you can control the richness based on your preferences.
• Let it rest: Allow the drumsticks to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or herbs into the sauce. Adding spinach or mushrooms can offer additional nutrition and flavor complexity.

How to Serve Creamy Black Pepper Chicken Drumsticks

Serving your Creamy Black Pepper Chicken Drumsticks can elevate your dining experience from simple to spectacular! Here are some delightful ways to present this hearty dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme sprigs: A few sprigs of thyme not only add color but also enhance that lovely herbal aroma.
• Chopped parsley: Bright green parsley adds a pop of freshness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Orzo: This small pasta has a lovely texture and pairs perfectly with creamy sauces. Toss it with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for extra flavor.
• Baked potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes with a bit of butter or sour cream make for a comforting side that balances well with the richness of chicken.
• Steamed broccoli: The crispness and slight bitterness of steamed broccoli provide a nutritious contrast to the creamy sauce. Plus, it’s easy to prepare!
• Simple side salad: A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing brings brightness to your plate while adding freshness.

Enjoy serving your Creamy Black Pepper Chicken Drumsticks alongside these delicious sides and garnishes for an impressive meal that’s sure to satisfy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Black Pepper Chicken Drumsticks recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken drumsticks to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the chicken is fully cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped drumsticks in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F.
• Place drumsticks on a baking sheet and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
• You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to keep them moist.

FAQs

Have questions? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries about making Creamy Black Pepper Chicken Drumsticks.

Can I use different types of chicken besides drumsticks?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken thighs or breasts if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary, since different cuts may require varying lengths of time to cook fully.

How spicy are the Creamy Black Pepper Chicken Drumsticks?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. The cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat, but feel free to reduce its amount or omit it altogether for a milder flavor.

What should I serve with Creamy Black Pepper Chicken Drumsticks?

These drumsticks pair wonderfully with sides like orzo, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Choose whichever complements your meal best!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to make these Creamy Black Pepper Chicken Drumsticks! This recipe is not only simple but also brings a comforting twist to your dinner table. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and savoring every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it out — happy cooking!