Sticky Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Sticky Glazed Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

If you’re craving tender, juicy chicken with a sticky, flavorful glaze, these Sticky Glazed Chicken Drumsticks are sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with mouthwatering flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 8–10 chicken drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

For the Sticky Glaze:

• ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• ⅓ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional for added flavor)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)

For Garnish:

• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with a paper towel to ensure crispy skin.
3. Season the drumsticks evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Drumsticks (Optional for Extra Flavor)

1. Heat 1–2 tablespoons of oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the drumsticks for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step adds flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

Step 3: Make the Sticky Glaze

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes.
2. Stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Coat the Drumsticks

1. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer in an oven-safe dish or the skillet used for searing.
2. Pour the sticky glaze over the drumsticks, ensuring they’re well-coated. Use a brush or spoon to distribute the glaze evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Drumsticks

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, turning the drumsticks halfway through to ensure even cooking.
2. Baste the drumsticks with the glaze from the dish during baking to keep them moist and flavorful.
3. Cook until the internal temperature of the drumsticks reaches 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.

Serving Suggestions

Once baked, sprinkle the drumsticks with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added crunch and freshness. These drumsticks pair beautifully with:

• Steamed Rice: White or jasmine rice soaks up the sticky glaze perfectly.
• Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or asparagus add a healthy balance.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes complement the sweet and savory glaze.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy dressing cuts through the richness of the chicken.

Tips for Success

• Marinate for Extra Flavor: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the glaze (reserve some for cooking) for 2–4 hours before cooking.
• Prevent Burning: Keep an eye on the drumsticks during the final minutes of baking, as the glaze can burn quickly due to the sugars.
• Make It Spicy: Add more chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the glaze for a spicy kick.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven or microwave until heated through.
• Freeze: These drumsticks freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Enjoy these sticky glazed chicken drumsticks as a crowd-pleasing main dish or a flavorful appetizer. Their irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors will have everyone reaching for seconds!