Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Drumsticks for a Savory Treat Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For extra flavor, you can lightly season the chicken drumsticks with salt and pepper before wrapping them in the bacon.

However, keep in mind that bacon is naturally salty, so go easy on the added salt to maintain a balanced flavor profile throughout the dish.

If you prefer an even crispier result, you can place a wire rack inside the baking sheet. This allows the heat to circulate underneath the drumsticks, ensuring the bacon on the bottom of the chicken becomes just as crispy as the bacon on the top.

Variations

• Spicy Maple Glaze: Brush the bacon with a mixture of maple syrup and a pinch of cayenne pepper during the last 5 minutes of baking for a sweet and spicy finish that complements the smoky bacon perfectly.
• Herb-Crusted Bacon: Sprinkle the bacon with dried thyme or rosemary before wrapping the drumsticks to add an aromatic, earthy dimension to the dish that pairs exceptionally well with the savory chicken meat.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and the bacon is crisp again.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Ensure the chicken has cooled completely to room temperature for no more than 2 hours before placing it in the fridge to maintain food safety standards and keep the meat as fresh as possible.

You can wrap the drumsticks in bacon up to 4 hours in advance and keep them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake. This makes it easy to prepare the dish ahead of time and simply pop them into the oven when you are ready to serve.

Serving ideas

Serve these drumsticks alongside a fresh, crisp salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the bacon-wrapped chicken.

The combination of the salty, crispy bacon and the tender chicken works well with sides that offer a bright or acidic contrast, such as a lemon-dressed greens or slaw.

These also make a great addition to a spread of appetizers for a gathering. Because they are easy to hold and eat, they are perfect for casual dining scenarios.

Serve them warm to ensure the bacon retains its characteristic crunch and the chicken remains at its most tender state.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Drumsticks for a Savory Treat

Prep 15 minCook 45 minRest 5 minTotal 1 h 5 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 8 slices bacon

Instructions

1. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry using paper towels. Wrap each individual drumstick with a slice of bacon, ensuring the bacon overlaps slightly so it stays secure during the baking process. Place the wrapped drumsticks onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
2. Place the baking sheet into a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the bacon is deeply caramelized and the chicken is fully cooked through. The bacon fat will render and baste the chicken, keeping the meat moist while the exterior becomes exceptionally crispy.
3. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the drumsticks to a clean plate. Allow the chicken to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the savory juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful as intended.

Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

350

Protein

28 g

Carbohydrates

0.5 g

Fat

26 g

Fiber

0 g

Sugar

0 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.