Looking for a delicious, comforting, and family-approved dinner idea? These Creamy Garlic Chicken Drumsticks are the answer. Cooked on the stovetop and smothered in a rich, flavorful garlic cream sauce, this dish takes simple chicken legs to a whole new level. If you’re tired of the same old oven-ready chicken drumsticks, this easy chicken drumstick dish is a must-try.
Whether you’re new to cooking chicken on the stove or just want something creamy and satisfying without using the oven, this recipe is designed for you. It’s budget-friendly, pantry-staple friendly, and perfect for weeknight meals or even entertaining.
Let’s dive into the full details, including how to make this on your stovetop, tips for flavor, storage advice, and some great food pairings!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Drumstick Dish
This stovetop recipe checks all the right boxes:
- Quick prep: No marinating needed
- Bold flavors: Thanks to garlic, seasoning, and rich cream
- Perfect texture: Juicy drumsticks in a silky sauce
- One-pan cooking: Minimal cleanup required
Whether you’re cooking for kids, a date night, or meal prep, this creamy garlic chicken drumstick recipe is incredibly versatile. Plus, it pairs well with both light and hearty side dishes.
If you like this recipe, you might also enjoy our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers or our Baked Chicken Legs.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken Drumsticks
Here’s everything you need to make this delicious stovetop chicken leg recipe:
- 2.5 pounds (1.1 kg) chicken drumsticks
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder or cube (crushed)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ cup (120 ml) water
Optional garnishes:
- Fresh parsley
- A sprinkle of paprika for color
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Drumsticks on the Stove
- Season the chicken: Pat the drumsticks dry and season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the drumsticks in the skillet and sear on all sides until golden brown (about 3–4 minutes per side). You’re not cooking them through yet—just getting that delicious browning.
- Add garlic: Push the drumsticks to one side of the pan and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Deglaze and add liquids: Pour in the heavy cream, water, and chicken bouillon. Stir gently to combine, making sure the drumsticks are coated in the sauce.
- Simmer: Cover and let the chicken simmer for 25–30 minutes on low heat, flipping occasionally. The sauce will reduce slightly and thicken.
- Finish with parsley: Sprinkle in dried parsley and give the sauce a final stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Plate your saucy chicken drumsticks and spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the top.
Want a sweeter note? Try serving this dish with Honey Glazed Carrots and Green Beans or Scalloped Potatoes.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large non-stick skillet or sauté pan with lid
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Tips for the Best Saucy Chicken Drumstick Recipes
- Pat your chicken dry before searing. This helps develop a better crust.
- Use heavy cream, not milk, for a rich and thick sauce.
- Don’t skip the bouillon — it adds umami and depth to the sauce.
- Simmer gently on low heat to prevent the cream from curdling.
If you love creamy dishes, you’ll also enjoy our Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken.
Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Baked Chicken Drumsticks on Plate
- Crowding the pan: It prevents proper searing and browning.
- Overheating the cream: High heat can break the sauce. Keep it on low.
- Skipping the flip: Turn the drumsticks halfway to cook them evenly.
- Not checking doneness: Use a meat thermometer — internal temp should be 165°F (75°C).
Serving and Presentation Tips
To serve baked chicken drumsticks on a plate with elegance:
- Use a white plate to highlight the creamy sauce.
- Add steamed green veggies on the side (like broccoli or asparagus).
- Spoon extra sauce over the top and garnish with parsley.
- Serve with a wedge of lemon for added brightness.
For a complete dinner spread, serve with Garlicky Kale with White Beans and Lemon or Garlic Butter Corn with Melty Cheese.
Variations and Swaps
- Use chicken thighs: Boneless or bone-in thighs work just as well and stay juicy.
- Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for extra flavor.
- Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle heat kick.
- Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- Try fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of dried parsley.
This recipe is as flexible as it is flavorful. You could even serve it with Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin for a richer meal.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storage:
- Let the dish cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
- Reheat in a covered skillet on low heat with a splash of water or cream.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until heated through.
Avoid freezing the sauce as cream tends to separate when thawed.
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken Drumsticks
This dish goes well with:
- Mashed potatoes or Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
- Steamed rice or wild rice
- Garlic bread or Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread
- Roasted veggies like zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers
Looking for a healthier side? Try Cucumber Dill Salad for a refreshing balance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen drumsticks?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning.
Can I make this in the oven?
Yes! Sear the chicken, then transfer to a baking dish with the sauce and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, but use a larger pan or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Use a mix of whole milk and a tablespoon of butter as a substitute, though the sauce won’t be as thick.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Creamy Chicken Leg Recipe
This stovetop Creamy Garlic Chicken Drumstick recipe is a true dinner winner. It’s everything you want in a weeknight meal: rich, easy, cozy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking to switch up your chicken leg recipes, or need a new favorite saucy chicken drumstick recipe, this dish fits the bill.
Bookmark it, share it, and serve it again and again!
📣 Enjoyed This Recipe?
Share this post with your fellow foodies and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more comforting and creative recipes!
You might also love these:
Print
Irresistibly Creamy Garlic Chicken Drumsticks You’ll Make Again and Again
- Total Time: 40–45 minutes
- Yield: 8 drumsticks (4 servings) 1x
Description
These Creamy Garlic Chicken Drumsticks are a rich, one-pan stovetop dinner that comes together in under 45 minutes. Juicy, seared drumsticks simmer in a silky garlic-herb cream sauce that clings to every bite—family-friendly, budget-friendly, and weeknight-ready.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2.2 lb / 1 kg)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (120 ml)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Season chicken: In a small bowl mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Pat drumsticks dry and rub seasoning all over.
- Sear: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear drumsticks 4–5 minutes per side until browned. Remove to a plate.
- Sauté aromatics: Reduce heat to medium, add butter and cook onion ~3 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic, thyme, and parsley; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer chicken: Return drumsticks to the pan, partially submerging in sauce. Cover and simmer 20–25 minutes, turning once, until cooked through (165°F / 74°C).
- Cheesy finish (optional): Sprinkle mozzarella over the sauce during the last 5 minutes; let melt.
- Serve: Spoon extra sauce over drumsticks and garnish with herbs if desired.
Notes
- Best results: Pat chicken dry for better sear; don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Creamy & smooth: Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer (don’t boil) and use full-fat heavy cream to prevent curdling.
- Too thick? Stir in a splash of broth to loosen. Too thin? Simmer uncovered a few minutes.
- Swaps: Use thighs or breasts (reduce simmer time). For dairy-free, use full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream. Add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli during the simmer.
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.
- Serving ideas: Great with mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or roasted veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, One-Pan
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: creamy garlic chicken drumsticks, one-pan chicken, stovetop chicken legs, garlic cream sauce chicken, easy weeknight dinner
