Introduction
Transform humble chicken drumsticks into an explosion of sweet, savory, and spicy flavor with this easy Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks recipe! It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that’s guaranteed to please the whole family – even the picky eaters! Get ready for sticky, delicious chicken that’s so good, you’ll be licking your fingers (and maybe the plate too!).
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s a beautiful balance of sweet and savory, with a delightful hint of spice. The glaze is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Plus, chicken drumsticks are naturally juicy and flavorful, making them the perfect base for this irresistible Korean-inspired glaze. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and impressive!
Key Ingredients
- 🍗 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 🍯 ¼ cup honey
- 🥄 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 🌶️ 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🧅 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2️⃣ In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, gochujang, minced garlic, and chopped onion.
3️⃣ Place the chicken drumsticks in a baking dish and pour the glaze over them, ensuring each drumstick is well coated.
4️⃣ Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is sticky and caramelized. You can flip the drumsticks halfway through for even cooking.
5️⃣ Garnish with sesame seeds (if using) and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the glaze for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- If you prefer a less spicy glaze, reduce the amount of gochujang.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish; this will ensure even cooking and prevent the glaze from becoming watery.
Heat Control
The oven temperature of 400°F (200°C) is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of tender chicken and a beautifully caramelized glaze. Too low, and the chicken might be dry; too high, and it might burn before it’s cooked through.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe doesn’t feature a crunchy element in the traditional sense, the caramelized glaze creates a delightful textural contrast to the tender chicken. The slight crispiness of the edges adds another layer of enjoyment.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a shortcut, use pre-minced garlic and pre-chopped onions to save time.
- Add a teaspoon of ginger paste to the glaze for an extra layer of warmth.
- For a sweeter glaze, increase the amount of honey slightly.
Storage Tips
Store leftover Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’re also delicious cold!
Gift Packaging Ideas
These drumsticks would make a fantastic gift! Package them in a pretty container with some sesame seeds sprinkled on top. You could also include a small card with the recipe.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for extra heat.
🌟 Sweet & Savory: Incorporate a tablespoon of rice vinegar for a tangy twist.
🌟 Citrus Burst: Add the zest and juice of half a lime or orange to the glaze for a refreshing finish.
🌟 Garlic Lover’s Dream: Double the amount of garlic for an intense garlic flavor.
Troubleshooting
- Chicken is dry: Make sure you don’t overbake the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Glaze is too thin: Increase the cooking time slightly to allow the glaze to reduce and thicken. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) to the glaze towards the end of cooking.
- Glaze is too sweet: Reduce the amount of honey next time.
FAQ
- Can I use other cuts of chicken? Yes, you can use chicken thighs or even chicken wings. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Can I make this on the stovetop? Yes, you can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, but you might need to adjust the cooking time and add a little water to prevent sticking.
- Can I freeze these? Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken drumsticks. Let them cool completely before freezing in a freezer-safe bag.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy this delicious and easy Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks recipe! It’s a fantastic weeknight meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media – we’d love to see your beautiful, sticky, and flavorful chicken! Happy cooking!