When you visit the meat department of virtually every supermarket, you can expect to see chicken drumsticks for sale. Some people stay away from this cut of meat, preferring the familiarity of chicken breasts. It's important to know that chicken drumsticks are not only tasty, but that you can also cook them in many different ways. Additionally, drumsticks often cost less than breasts, allowing you to save money when you shop. Here are three popular ways to cook chicken drumsticks.

Barbecued

During the summer months, chicken drumsticks on the barbecue can be delicious — providing a nice alternative to hamburgers and other fare that you typically grill. There are lots of ways to barbecue drumsticks, but a common option is to apply a dry rub of spices, making sure to thoroughly coat the entire surface of the meat. Coat the grill with a non-stick spray before lighting the barbecue, and cook the drumsticks until they're at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit when you poke them with a thermometer. Just before the end of the cook, brush the drumsticks with your choice of barbecue sauce.

Fried

If you have a deep fryer, chicken drumsticks are an excellent type of protein to cook in this manner. A popular preparation mode is to crack an egg in a dish and whisk it thoroughly. In another dish, place white flour and a combination of salt, pepper, and spices. Dredge the chicken in the egg and then roll it in the flour until it's well coated. When the fryer indicates that the oil is up to temperature, place some of your drumsticks in the basket and cook them until they reach the recommended internal temperature. This cooking method will give you juicy meat with a crisp outer coating.

Baked

Another way to cook drumsticks is in your oven or toaster oven. This option can be good for a health-conscious family that is trying to stay away from fried foods. Place your drumsticks in an oven-safe dish and sprinkle a combination of your favorite herbs and spices on them. You can buy a specific herb or spice mix for this application, but you can also make your own blend from what you have in your kitchen cupboard. Bake the drumsticks at any temperature between 350 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Choosing a higher temperature setting will result in crispier skin, as well as a shorter baking time. Check the chicken with your thermometer and enjoy it with vegetables.

Look online for other tasty recipes for cooking treats like chicken drumsticks.