SWEET AND STICKY CHICKEN DRUMSTICKS
Sweet and Sticky Chicken Drumsticks: A Flavorful Delight for Any Occasion
If you’re on the hunt for a mouthwatering chicken recipe that’s easy to prepare and sure to please, look no further than these Sweet and Sticky Chicken Drumsticks. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together, with its tender meat that practically falls off the bone and a glaze that’s sweet, savory, and irresistibly sticky. Let’s dive into how you can make this delightful recipe at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These drumsticks are a hit for several reasons:
- Effortless Preparation: With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
- Delectable Flavor: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and soy sauce creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
- Versatile Cooking: Whether you bake them in the oven or use a slow cooker, these drumsticks come out incredibly tender.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite seasonings to make this dish your own!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large resealable bag
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Cooling rack
- Small saucepan
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 12 chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup chopped scallion
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large resealable bag, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Add the chicken drumsticks, seal the bag, and marinate in the refrigerator for 2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a cooling rack on top.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, saving the marinade for later. Arrange the drumsticks on the cooling rack.
- Bake the drumsticks in the oven for about 30 minutes, or until the skin is caramelized and darkened in spots.
- While the chicken bakes, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until thickened, about 15 minutes.
- Brush the thickened marinade over the drumsticks and return them to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped scallions before serving.
Tips for Success
- Marinate Longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Monitor the Heat: Keep a close eye on the saucepan to avoid burning the marinade as it thickens.
- Check Doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Additional Tips and Variations
For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also serve these drumsticks with a side of coleslaw or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 400mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks? Yes, chicken thighs work well with this recipe too!
- How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
- What can I use as a substitute for balsamic vinegar? Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar with a pinch of sugar can be used as a substitute.
Conclusion
These Sweet and Sticky Chicken Drumsticks are a surefire way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious results. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any personal touches you add in the comments below. Happy cooking!