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Tortilla Chicken Drumsticks

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 29 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

These tortilla chicken drumsticks offer a clever twist on traditional breaded chicken, providing a satisfyingly noisy crunch without the need for deep-frying. By using crushed corn tortilla crisps as a coating, you achieve a toasted maize flavour that pairs perfectly with the warmth of ground cumin and chilli powder. Baking at a high temperature ensures the coating becomes golden and crisp while the chicken remains succulent and tender inside.

As a high-protein dish, this recipe is ideal for a nutritious midweek dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch. The mild spice makes it a family-friendly favourite that feels like a treat while remaining a healthy, homemade alternative to shop-bought fried chicken. For the best results, serve these drumsticks alongside a fresh seasonal salad or a crunchy slaw, with plenty of lime wedges for zest.

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Ingredients for Tortilla Chicken Drumsticks

  • 230g lightly salted corn tortilla crisps

  • 4 teaspoons chilli powder, divided

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 large egg

  • 1.1kg chicken drumsticks (about 10)

  • Accompaniment: lime wedges

How to make Tortilla Chicken Drumsticks

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Preheat oven to 232°C with rack in middle. Oil a large 4-sided sheet pan.

Pulse chips, 2 teaspoons chilli powder, cumin, and 1/4 teaspoons salt in a food processor until coarsely ground, then transfer to a shallow dish.

Whisk egg and remaining 2 teaspoons chilli powder in a bowl.

Season chicken with 1/2 teaspoons salt. Dip drumsticks in egg, letting excess drip off, then coat with crumbs, pressing to help them adhere. Transfer to sheet pan.

Bake, without turning, until cooked through, 40 to 45 minutes. Let stand, uncovered, 5 minutes.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 29 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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