Name: Lemongrass and Coconut Chicken Drumsticks
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 260 min
Ingredients: 10 pieces chicken drumsticks (Skin removed); 1 large stalk lemongrass; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 thumb-size piece ginger (microplaned); 1.25 cups full-fat coconut milk (divided); 2 tablespoons Red Boat fish sauce; 3 tablespoons coconut aminos; 1 teaspoon five spice powder; 1 large onion (thinly sliced); 0.25 cups fresh scallions (chopped); to taste Diamond Crystal kosher salt; to taste Freshly ground black pepper

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There’s something truly magical about the combination of lemongrass and coconut, especially when it envelops juicy chicken drumsticks. That’s why I simply adore making Lemongrass and Coconut Chicken Drumsticks in my slow cooker. The first time I whipped this up, the aroma filled my kitchen, drawing my family in as they eagerly anticipated dinner. It was a rainy evening, and we were all looking for a warm, comforting meal. As the slow cooker worked its magic, I found myself reflecting on the flavors that truly transport me to a tropical paradise. Each bite is a burst of flavor—coconut milk adds richness while lemongrass offers that fresh, vibrant taste that brightens the dish. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite, one that I can’t wait to share with you!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
4 hr 20 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
240 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
30 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Blender, Cutting Board, Grater, Slow Cooker, Saucepan, Mixing Bowl

Why This Lemongrass and Coconut Chicken Drumsticks Is So Good

Rich, Creamy Flavor

One of the standout features of Lemongrass and Coconut Chicken Drumsticks is its rich and creamy sauce. The full-fat coconut milk creates a velvety texture that complements the tender chicken perfectly. It’s like hugging your taste buds with a warm blanket of goodness!

Healthy Ingredients

This dish is not just delicious; it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients. The lemongrass, ginger, and garlic not only add flavor but also offer numerous health benefits. These fresh ingredients are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can boost your immune system, making this dish a guilt-free indulgence.

Convenience of Slow Cooking

Who doesn’t love the convenience of a slow cooker? With Lemongrass and Coconut Chicken Drumsticks, you can prep your ingredients and let the slow cooker do the hard work! This means you can spend time doing what you love while your meal slowly transforms into a culinary masterpiece.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This recipe is fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts. You can easily make a large batch and store leftovers in the fridge, enjoying the same delightful flavors for days! Reheating the drumsticks brings back that comforting aroma that fills the kitchen once again.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, Lemongrass and Coconut Chicken Drumsticks fits perfectly into any occasion. The exotic flavors impress guests, while the simplicity of preparation ensures you won’t be stuck in the kitchen while everyone else is enjoying themselves.

Family-Friendly Meal

This dish is loved by both adults and kids. The combination of sweet, creamy coconut with tender chicken makes it a hit with little ones who might be picky eaters. It’s a meal everyone can agree on!

Ingredients Overview for Lemongrass and Coconut Chicken Drumsticks

For this recipe, I’ve chosen a selection of ingredients that harmonize beautifully. Each element plays a crucial role in the dish’s flavor profile. The chicken drumsticks are the star, tenderized by the marinade made of lemongrass, garlic, and ginger. The coconut milk not only adds creaminess but also balances the flavors beautifully, while the fish sauce and coconut aminos bring that umami punch.

10 chicken drumsticks – Skin removed for a healthier option.
1 large lemongrass stalk – Adds a fresh, citrusy flavor that brightens the dish.
4 garlic cloves – Minced to infuse the marinade with aromatic goodness.
1 thumb-size piece of ginger – Microplaned for a spicy kick.
1¼ cups full-fat coconut milk – Creates a rich and creamy sauce.
2 tablespoons Red Boat fish sauce – Adds depth of flavor.
3 tablespoons coconut aminos – A soy sauce alternative that enhances the umami taste.
1 teaspoon five spice powder – Brings warmth and complexity.
1 large onion – Thinly sliced for a sweet undertone.
¼ cup fresh scallions – Chopped for a fresh garnish.
Diamond Crystal kosher salt – To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
Freshly ground black pepper – Adds a hint of spice.

How to Prepare Lemongrass and Coconut Chicken Drumsticks

Making Lemongrass and Coconut Chicken Drumsticks is a straightforward process that anyone can master. The combination of fresh ingredients and slow cooking results in a flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to prepare this delicious meal!

Start by removing the skin from the chicken drumsticks. I often find that using a paper towel makes this task easier, as it gives you a better grip. Place the drumsticks in a large bowl and season them with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
Next, prepare the lemongrass. You’ll want to trim the tough ends first and then either finely grate it with a microplane or smash it using a meat pounder. Make sure to cut it against the grain to create a fine dice. This way, you won’t have fibrous bits in your final dish.
Now it’s time to make the marinade. In a high-powered blender, combine the grated lemongrass, minced garlic, microplaned ginger, coconut milk, fish sauce, coconut aminos, and five spice powder. Blitz until everything is combined into a smooth sauce.
Pour this delightful marinade over the seasoned chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Let the flavors meld for a few minutes while you prepare the slow cooker.
In the bottom of your slow cooker, place the sliced onion. This will provide a flavorful base for the chicken to rest on. Then, pour the marinated chicken and sauce on top.
Set your slow cooker to low heat and let it cook for about 4 to 5 hours. This low and slow method allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and absorb all the delicious flavors.
If you’re ready to enjoy your meal right away, top the chicken with some freshly chopped scallions. This adds a nice crunch and fresh flavor.
If you plan to save some for later, transfer the chicken and sauce to a storage container and refrigerate for a couple of days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in a pot over low heat until heated through.
For a creamy sauce, once cooking is complete, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Pour the sauce and cooked onions into a blender and puree until smooth. Add a bit more coconut milk for extra creaminess before returning everything back to the slow cooker to keep warm.

Things Worth Knowing

Texture Tips: The final texture of the chicken should be tender and easily pulled apart with a fork. This indicates that it has been cooked properly in the slow cooker.
Marinade Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking can intensify the flavors.
Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat will ensure that the chicken is juicy and flavorful, as it absorbs the marinade thoroughly.
Garnish Options: Consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an added pop of flavor when serving.

Helpful Hints

To make your experience with Lemongrass and Coconut Chicken Drumsticks even better, here are some helpful hints that you might find useful. These tips will not only enhance your cooking but also help you enjoy this dish even more!

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken along with the sauce for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the sauce.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavors.
Texture Variation: For a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer without the chicken at the end to reduce it down.

How to Serve Lemongrass and Coconut Chicken Drumsticks

Serving Lemongrass and Coconut Chicken Drumsticks can be more than just placing the chicken on a plate. Here are my favorite ways to present this delightful dish:

Over Rice: Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice to soak up every drop of the creamy sauce.
With Fresh Salad: Pair with a light salad of mixed greens and herbs for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Garnished with Herbs: Top with additional fresh scallions or even cilantro for a pop of freshness.
As a Meal Prep Option: This dish is perfect for meal prepping! Pack it with rice and veggies for an easy weeknight dinner.
For Gatherings: This recipe is great for entertaining. Set it up as a buffet and let guests serve themselves!
Seasonal Serving: During festive occasions, consider adding festive garnishes like pomegranate seeds or lime wedges for a splash of color.

FAQ

Yes, you can definitely use boneless chicken in this recipe. Boneless drumsticks or thighs will work beautifully, absorbing the marinade just as well as bone-in pieces. Just be mindful that the cooking time might be reduced, so check for doneness a little earlier.

Leftovers of Lemongrass and Coconut Chicken Drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. The flavors continue to develop even after the initial cooking!

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Simply cool the chicken completely and transfer it along with the sauce into a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can adjust the heat levels based on your preference. If you enjoy some heat, consider adding fresh chili or red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick!

Conclusion

In summary, Lemongrass and Coconut Chicken Drumsticks is a delightful dish that perfectly balances rich flavors and comforting textures. It’s an easy, family-friendly recipe that’s sure to impress at any gathering. I encourage you to try it tonight and enjoy the warm, inviting aromas filling your kitchen!