Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure with these mouthwatering Chicken Sticky Spiced Drumsticks! Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with a perfect blend of Asian-inspired flavors that will transport you straight to a bustling street market in Southeast Asia. These drumsticks are not just a meal; they're a flavor-packed experience that combines sweet, savory, and aromatic spices in every single bite. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress your family or a food enthusiast craving something extraordinary, this recipe is about to become your new go-to dish that promises restaurant-quality taste right from your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by combining soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and five-spice powder in a large mixing bowl. Whisk ingredients until well blended.
- Place chicken drumsticks in the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top for better air circulation and crispier skin.
- Remove drumsticks from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Reserve the remaining marinade for basting.
- Arrange drumsticks on the prepared wire rack, ensuring they are not touching each other. This helps ensure even cooking and crispy exterior.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting with reserved marinade every 10-15 minutes. Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is golden and slightly caramelized.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving. Can be accompanied by steamed rice or roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Marination is Key: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. The longer the drumsticks sit in the marinade, the more deeply the flavors will penetrate the meat.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees both safety and juiciness.
- Basting Technique: Baste the drumsticks every 10-15 minutes to create a glossy, caramelized exterior that's both sticky and crispy.
- Rack Placement: Using a wire rack on your baking sheet allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring even cooking and crispier skin.
- Resting Period: Always let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
- Garnish Creatively: Don't skip the sesame seeds! They add a delightful nutty crunch and authentic Asian touch to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 140mg
