Name: Easy Sticky Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 chicken drumsticks; For Marinade:; 6 garlic cloves; 3 tbsp ginger; 1 red chili; 3 tbsp honey; ½ cup soy sauce; For Garnish:; sesame seed; spring onion

Craving a delightful combination of sweet and spicy? These sticky chicken drumsticks are perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and packed with flavor, they're sure to become a family favorite.

Photos of Easy Sticky Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Some ingredients like fresh ginger and red chili might not be staples in every household. When heading to the supermarket, look for fresh ginger root in the produce section and red chili in the fresh vegetable area. These add essential zest and heat to the dish.

Ingredients for Easy Sticky Chicken Drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks: The main protein, providing a juicy and tender base for the marinade.

Garlic cloves: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor to the marinade.

Ginger: Fresh ginger gives a warm, zesty kick.

Red chili: Brings the necessary heat to balance the sweetness.

Honey: Adds a natural sweetness and helps create that sticky glaze.

Soy sauce: Provides a salty, umami depth to the marinade.

Sesame seed: Used for garnish, adding a slight nutty flavor and crunch.

Spring onion: Fresh and crisp, used for garnish to add a pop of color and flavor.

One reader, Cristina Grubbs says:

This easy sticky chicken drumsticks recipe is fantastic! The marinade is flavorful and the chicken turns out perfectly sticky and delicious. It's a hit with the whole family and so simple to make. Highly recommend!

Cristina Grubbs

Techniques Required for Making Easy Sticky Chicken Drumsticks

Yes.

How to mince garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and finely chop them using a knife or use a garlic press. How to grate ginger: Peel the ginger and use a grater to finely grate it. How to chop chili: Remove the seeds from the chili and finely chop it. How to marinate chicken: Combine the marinade ingredients with the chicken and let it sit in the fridge for the specified time. How to fry chicken: Heat a large pan, add the chicken, and cook it on all sides until golden brown. How to thicken a sauce: Boil the marinade until it reduces and thickens to a sauce-like consistency. How to garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped spring onions over the finished dish before serving.

How To Make Easy Sticky Chicken Drumsticks

These sticky chicken drumsticks are goldenly fried and cooked in a thick, sweet-spicy honey marinade for a juicy and savory bite!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Marinate Time: 4 hours

Total: 4 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

12chicken drumsticks

For Marinade:

6garlic cloves,crushed
3tbspginger
1red chili
3tbsphoney
½cupsoy sauce

For Garnish:

sesame seed
spring onion

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine the garlic, ginger, chili, honey, and soy sauce. Mix in the chicken drumsticks.
Cover with cling film and leave to marinate in the fridge for about 4 to 6 hours, or overnight.
Fry the chicken in a large pan, on all sides for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring often to prevent the marinade from burning, until golden brown.
Remove from the pan and pour in the marinade. Bring to a boil and stir, until the marinade is thick and resembles a sauce.
Throw the chicken back in the pan and fry for about 5 to 10 minutes in the sauce, making sure each drumstick is evenly coated and cooked through.
Garnish with sesame seeds and spring onions. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 717.96kcal
Fat: 36.95g
Saturated Fat: 9.85g
Trans Fat: 0.19g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.87g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.95g
Carbohydrates: 17.38g
Fiber: 0.53g
Sugar: 13.24g
Protein: 75.18g
Cholesterol: 367.08mg
Sodium: 2175.97mg
Calcium: 52.42mg
Potassium: 1030.11mg
Iron: 3.48mg
Vitamin A: 56.58µg
Vitamin C: 2.39mg

Technique Tip for Achieving Perfect Sticky Chicken Drumsticks

To ensure the chicken drumsticks are evenly coated with the marinade, use a resealable plastic bag instead of a mixing bowl. This allows you to massage the marinade into the chicken and ensures every piece is well-flavored. Additionally, when frying the chicken, use medium heat to prevent the honey in the marinade from burning too quickly.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Sticky Chicken Drumsticks

Prepare the marinade ahead: Mix the garlic, ginger, chili, honey, and soy sauce the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use a ziplock bag: Marinate the chicken drumsticks in a ziplock bag for easy cleanup and even coating.

Preheat the pan: Ensure the pan is hot before adding the chicken to reduce cooking time and achieve a golden brown color faster.

Double the batch: Cook extra drumsticks and store them for quick meals throughout the week.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Sticky Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

chicken drumsticks - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a suitable alternative.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove to maintain the garlic flavor.
ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Use 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger for each tablespoon of fresh ginger to achieve a similar taste.
red chili - Substitute with red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes provide a similar heat level; use 1/4 teaspoon for each chili.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and consistency, making it a good alternative.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free option that has a similar taste and saltiness to soy sauce.
sesame seed - Substitute with chopped peanuts: Chopped peanuts add a similar crunch and nutty flavor.
spring onion - Substitute with chives: Chives provide a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.

Best Way to Present Sticky Chicken Drumsticks

Serve on a sleek, white plate: The contrast of the sticky chicken drumsticks against a pristine white background will make the colors pop and look more appetizing.
Arrange drumsticks in a fan shape: Position the chicken drumsticks in a semi-circle or fan shape to create an appealing visual flow on the plate.
Drizzle the thickened marinade: Use a spoon to artistically drizzle the thickened marinade over the chicken drumsticks and around the plate for added flavor and visual appeal.
Garnish with sesame seeds: Lightly sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken drumsticks to add a touch of elegance and a subtle crunch.
Add finely sliced spring onions: Scatter thinly sliced spring onions over the chicken drumsticks for a burst of color and a fresh, aromatic finish.
Include a side of pickled vegetables: Serve with a small portion of pickled vegetables to provide a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the sticky chicken.
Use microgreens for a fresh touch: Add a small handful of microgreens on the side or on top of the chicken drumsticks for a fresh, vibrant garnish.
Incorporate edible flowers: Place a few edible flowers around the plate to elevate the presentation and add a touch of sophistication.
Serve with a dipping sauce: Offer a small dish of dipping sauce made from the remaining marinade for an extra layer of flavor.
Finish with a light mist of oil: Lightly mist the chicken drumsticks with a high-quality olive oil spray to give them a glossy, appetizing finish.

Essential Tools for Making Sticky Chicken Drumsticks

Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the marinade ingredients and mix in the chicken drumsticks.
Cling film: Plastic wrap used to cover the mixing bowl and marinating chicken, keeping it fresh in the fridge.
Large pan: A spacious pan used to fry the chicken drumsticks and cook the marinade into a thick sauce.
Tongs: Handy for turning the chicken drumsticks while frying to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.
Knife: Essential for chopping the garlic, ginger, and red chili for the marinade.
Cutting board: A safe surface to chop the garlic, ginger, and red chili.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the honey and soy sauce accurately for the marinade.
Spatula: Useful for stirring the marinade in the pan to prevent it from burning and to ensure it thickens properly.
Serving plate: A plate to serve the finished sticky chicken drumsticks, garnished with sesame seeds and spring onions.
Spoon: Useful for scooping out the marinade and drizzling it over the chicken drumsticks.
Grater: Handy for grating the ginger if you prefer a finer texture in the marinade.
Small bowl: Useful for holding the sesame seeds and chopped spring onions for garnishing.

How To Store and Freeze Sticky Chicken Drumsticks

Allow the chicken drumsticks to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This will prevent condensation from forming and keep the chicken fresh for longer.
Refrigerate the leftover sticky chicken drumsticks for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, simply microwave or bake them in the oven until heated through.
To freeze the chicken drumsticks, place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Label the container with the date and contents for easy reference.
Frozen sticky chicken drumsticks can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
If you have leftover marinade, you can store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Use it as a sauce for stir-fries, grilled meats, or as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or dumplings.
To maintain the best quality and flavor, avoid freezing the chicken drumsticks multiple times. Repeated freezing and thawing can cause the texture of the chicken to deteriorate and may lead to a loss of flavor.

How To Reheat Leftover Sticky Chicken Drumsticks

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the leftover chicken drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the drumsticks with a little bit of honey or soy sauce to help them retain moisture and flavor. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the chicken drumsticks on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the meat to become tough and rubbery.
If you want to reheat the drumsticks on the stovetop, place them in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan to help keep the meat moist. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat the drumsticks for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through.
For a crispy exterior, you can reheat the chicken drumsticks under the broiler. Preheat your broiler to high and place the drumsticks on a baking sheet. Brush them with a little bit of honey or soy sauce and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the meat is heated through.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the chicken drumsticks. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the drumsticks in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method will help to crisp up the skin while keeping the meat juicy and tender.

Random Fact About Sticky Chicken Drumsticks

A random fact about this recipe is that marinating the chicken drumsticks for an extended period allows the flavors of the garlic, ginger, and soy sauce to deeply penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.

Is Making Sticky Chicken Drumsticks at Home Economical?

The easy sticky chicken drumsticks recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With chicken drumsticks being relatively inexpensive and the marinade ingredients like garlic, ginger, red chili, honey, and soy sauce being pantry staples, this dish offers a flavorful meal without breaking the bank. Garnishing with sesame seeds and spring onions adds a touch of elegance at a minimal cost. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $15.

Are Sticky Chicken Drumsticks Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for sticky chicken drumsticks, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The marinade contains a significant amount of honey and soy sauce, which are high in sugar and sodium, respectively. Consuming excessive amounts of these ingredients can lead to various health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Additionally, frying the chicken in a pan adds extra fat and calories to the dish.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of honey and soy sauce in the marinade, or replace them with healthier alternatives like low-sodium soy sauce and natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract
Instead of frying the chicken, opt for baking or grilling methods to reduce the fat content
Remove the skin from the drumsticks to further reduce the fat and calorie count
Increase the amount of ginger and garlic in the marinade, as these ingredients have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
Serve the drumsticks with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to add more nutrients and fiber to the meal

By incorporating these changes, you can enjoy a healthier version of this tasty dish without compromising on flavor. Remember, moderation is key, and it's essential to maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods.

Editor's Thoughts on This Sticky Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors with the combination of garlic, ginger, chili, honey, and soy sauce. Marinating the chicken drumsticks ensures they absorb the rich, sticky sauce, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. Frying them to a golden brown adds a satisfying texture, while the final simmer in the thickened marinade ensures each drumstick is perfectly coated. The garnish of sesame seeds and spring onions adds a fresh, crunchy contrast. Overall, it's a straightforward yet impressive dish that promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

Enhance Your Easy Sticky Chicken Drumsticks Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Complement the sticky chicken drumsticks with a burst of freshness by serving grilled asparagus drizzled with a hint of lemon zest. The citrusy zing will cut through the richness of the marinade, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Indulge in the creamy goodness of garlic mashed potatoes. The smooth, buttery texture and the aromatic garlic will pair perfectly with the sticky, savory drumsticks, making each bite a comforting delight.

Mango Avocado Salad: Add a touch of tropical flair with a mango avocado salad. The sweetness of the mango and the creaminess of the avocado will provide a refreshing contrast to the sticky chicken, making your meal vibrant and exciting.

Coconut Rice: Transport your taste buds to an exotic locale with coconut rice. The subtle sweetness and the fragrant aroma of coconut will enhance the flavors of the sticky drumsticks, creating a delightful culinary journey.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Elevate your side dish game with roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with a balsamic glaze. The caramelized edges and the tangy sweetness of the glaze will add depth and complexity to your meal, making it a feast for the senses.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Sticky Chicken Drumsticks

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: If you loved the sticky sweetness of the drumsticks, you'll adore these honey garlic chicken thighs. Marinated in a blend of garlic, honey, and soy sauce, then baked to perfection, these thighs are juicy and flavorful. Garnish with sesame seeds and spring onions for an extra touch.

Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Wings: Craving something with a kick? These spicy teriyaki chicken wings are marinated in a mix of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and red chili. Baked until crispy and then tossed in a sticky teriyaki glaze, they're perfect for game day or a casual dinner.

Sweet And Sour Pork: For a delightful balance of flavors, try sweet and sour pork. The pork is coated in a tangy sauce made from pineapple juice, vinegar, and soy sauce. Serve with bell peppers and onions for a colorful and tasty dish.

Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon: Elevate your seafood game with ginger soy glazed salmon. Marinate the salmon in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and honey, then bake until flaky. Top with sesame seeds and spring onions for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Korean BBQ Beef Short Ribs: Indulge in the rich flavors of Korean BBQ beef short ribs. Marinated in a blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and honey, these ribs are grilled to perfection. Serve with kimchi and rice for an authentic experience.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Easy Sticky Chicken Drumsticks

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Transform your next gathering with these stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are then baked to perfection, creating a delightful contrast between the creamy filling and the tender mushroom exterior. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor. Serve these warm, and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with garlic for an aromatic base. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The tomatoes provide a juicy, tangy bite, while the basil adds a refreshing herbal note. This simple yet sophisticated dish is perfect for any occasion, offering a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate center encased in a delicate, fluffy cake shell. This dessert is a symphony of textures and flavors, perfect for those who crave a decadent treat. Serve it warm, allowing the chocolate lava to ooze out as you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness. A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries can add a touch of elegance and a burst of freshness.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Envision a zesty lemon filling nestled in a buttery, flaky crust, topped with a cloud of golden-brown meringue. This dessert is a delightful contrast of tangy and sweet, with a texture that ranges from creamy to crisp. Serve it chilled to enhance the refreshing citrus flavor. A garnish of lemon zest or a few mint leaves can elevate its presentation. This pie is perfect for a light, yet satisfying end to a meal, leaving your guests with a lingering taste of sunshine.

Why trust this Easy Sticky Chicken Drumsticks Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try because it combines the perfect balance of garlic, ginger, and red chili for a flavorful marinade that infuses the chicken drumsticks with rich, savory goodness. The addition of honey and soy sauce creates a sticky, caramelized coating that is simply irresistible. Garnishing with sesame seeds and spring onions adds a delightful crunch and freshness. Plus, the step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice cooks can achieve delicious results. Trust this recipe for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly tasty.

Have you tried this Easy Sticky Chicken Drumsticks Recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken drumsticks?

Ideally, you should marinate the chicken drumsticks for about 4 to 6 hours, but if you have the time, leaving them overnight will give you even more flavor.

Can I bake the chicken drumsticks instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy. You can still use the marinade as a sauce by boiling it separately.

What can I use as a substitute for red chili?

If you don't have red chili or prefer a milder flavor, you can use red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a non-spicy option, you can skip the chili altogether.

How do I know when the chicken drumsticks are fully cooked?

The chicken drumsticks are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also cut into one of the drumsticks to check if the juices run clear.

Can I use chicken thighs or wings instead of drumsticks?

Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs or wings if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs might take a bit longer and wings might cook a bit faster.