Crispy Cornflake Chicken Drumsticks with Deviled Dipping Sauce

Corn Crisped Drumsticks
These Corn Crisped Drumsticks are a nostalgic take on oven-baked fried chicken that delivers the same golden, crunchy texture without deep frying. Coated in crushed cornflakes mixed with savory seasonings, the drumsticks are baked until crispy on the outside and tender inside. The pairing of a zesty Deviled Dipping Sauce, made from tomato sauce, mustard, relish, and Worcestershire, elevates the flavor with a tangy, slightly spicy kick. Perfect for family dinners, game-day spreads, or retro-inspired comfort food nights, this dish embodies mid-century culinary charm while keeping things simple and satisfying.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 355 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Drumsticks:

  • 3 cups cornflake crumbs
  • 2 tsp monosodium glutamate (optional)
  • 2 tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp pepper
  • 16 chicken drumsticks
  • ½ cup evaporated milk (or regular milk)

For the Deviled Dipping Sauce:

  • tbsp prepared mustard
  • cup pickled relish
  • 8 oz tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp horseradish
  • tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions
 

For the Drumsticks:

    Step 1: Prepare the Coating

    • In a shallow bowl, combine cornflake crumbs, monosodium glutamate, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

    Step 2: Prepare the Drumsticks

    • Pour evaporated milk into a separate shallow bowl. Dip each drumstick into the milk, then roll immediately in the seasoned cornflake mixture until well-coated.

    Step 3: Arrange and Bake

    • Place coated drumsticks on a lightly greased baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
    • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, or until drumsticks are crisp and tender.

    Step 4: Serve

    • Serve hot with Deviled Dipping Sauce on the side.

    For the Deviled Dipping Sauce:

      Step 5: Mix the Sauce

      • Combine mustard, pickled relish, tomato sauce, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until smooth.

      Tips

      • Use skin-on drumsticks for extra moisture and flavor.
      • Substitute cornflake crumbs with crushed unsweetened corn cereal if needed.
      • Season crumbs with paprika or garlic powder for added flavor.
      • Place drumsticks on a rack over the pan for maximum crispness.
      • Line pans with foil, as written, for easy cleanup.
      • Turn on convection during the last 10 minutes for extra crunch.
      • Check doneness with a thermometer (165°F internal temperature).
      • Serve warm with the included Divided Dipping Sauce or your favorite BBQ sauce.
      • Can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.

      Nutrition

      Calories: 355kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 29gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 115mgSodium: 670mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 2mg
      Keyword baked drumsticks, cornflake chicken, crispy chicken, easy oven chicken, family dinner, vintage recipe, weeknight dinner
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