Chicken Drumsticks — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 5, 2024
Nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 172 kcal
| Nutrition per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 0 g | - |
| Fiber | 0 g | - |
| Sugars | 0 g | - |
| Glycemic Index | 0 | - |
| Protein | 28 g | 56% |
| Sodium | 95 mg | 4.13% |
| Total Fat | 6 g | 7.69% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
28 g
💪 High Protein Content
Key takeaways
Health benefits
- High in protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, selenium, and phosphorus, which support energy metabolism, immune function, and overall health.
- Rich in flavor due to the dark meat, which provides a more succulent and satisfying taste.
- Supports bone health due to the presence of bone marrow, which provides additional nutrients.
Health risks
- High fat content particularly with the skin, which can contribute to increased cholesterol levels and heart disease if consumed frequently.
- Risk of contamination with harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or Campylobacter, especially if the chicken is not properly cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Potential for antibiotic resistance due to the use of antibiotics in poultry farming, which can affect the effectiveness of antibiotics in humans.
- Risk of foodborne illness if chicken drumsticks are not properly stored, handled, or cooked, leading to potential food poisoning.
How to choose chicken drumsticks
Look for chicken drumsticks that have smooth, unblemished skin and a healthy pink hue. The meat should be firm and rebound when pressed. Check that the drumsticks are well-trimmed and have no excess fat or blood spots.
Steer clear of drumsticks that show signs of discoloration or have an off-smell. Good chicken drumsticks should smell fresh and be free from any sliminess, which is a common sign of poor handling.
How to store chicken drumsticks
Chicken drumsticks should be stored in the refrigerator and used within a couple of days. Keep them in their original packaging or an airtight container. For extended storage, freezing up to six months is suitable.
Exposure to air and improper sealing can lead to spoilage. Ensure drumsticks are kept in a sealed container to maintain freshness. Avoid frequent thawing and refreezing to preserve texture and flavor. Always use clean utensils and surfaces to prevent contamination.
✅ Extra Tip
How long do they last?
Chicken drumsticks can last for 1-2 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, chicken drumsticks can be frozen for up to 9 months. Proper packaging, such as vacuum-sealing, helps maintain their quality over longer storage periods.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover chicken drumsticks can be used in a variety of dishes. Shred the meat and add it to salads, wraps, or sandwiches, or mix it into a pasta dish with a creamy sauce. Chicken drumsticks are also great in soups, stews, or casseroles, where the tender meat adds flavor and richness.
Use chicken drumsticks in a stir-fry with vegetables and rice, or toss them with barbecue sauce for a pulled chicken sandwich. If you have a lot of drumsticks, consider making a batch of chicken enchiladas or using the meat in a chicken and rice bake. The drumstick meat can also be added to a quiche or frittata for a savory breakfast or brunch. For a quick meal, reheat the drumsticks and serve them with a side of mashed potatoes or vegetables.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
How chicken drumsticks support specific health conditions
Chicken drumsticks are a flavorful source of protein, supporting muscle health and tissue repair. They also contain B vitamins and phosphorus, which promote bone health and brain function. While drumsticks are higher in fat compared to chicken breast, they can still support heart health when consumed without the skin and paired with a balanced diet rich in vegetables and whole grains.
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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