Step 1

In a large bowl, season the chicken drumsticks with salt and pepper uniformly.

Step 2

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Cook the drumsticks for about about 4-5 minutes, turning to brown on both sides. Don't overcrowd the pan! Divide the drumsticks in 2 batches. Remove from the skillet with tongs and place on a large plate. Reserve.

Step 3

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to the skillet, reduce the heat to medium, and sweat the onion and bell pepper for approximately 3 minutes. Add the chopped garlic cloves and cook for about 1 minute. Add the canned diced tomatoes, basil, and cilantro/parsley.

Step 4

Let cook for about 2 minutes. Transfer the cooked vegetables to a blender, add the coconut milk, the broth, lime juice, ground ginger, and softened cream cheese. Blend everything together until obtaining a homogeneous, creamy mixture.

Step 5

Transfer the blended mixture to the skillet and let cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until cream cheese has melted and completely incorporated into the sauce.

Step 6

Add the reserved browned chicken drumsticks to the skillet, cover the pan halfway, and let simmer over medium to medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked.

Step 7

Garnish with basil leaves, chopped cilantro/parsley, and sliced red jalapeno if desired. Serve over white rice or noodles with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy! YIELD: 10 drumsticks (2 per person).