Sticky Chicken Drumsticks are an easy yet indulgent treat that packs a punch with a sweet and tangy flavor. The sauce, made from barbecue sauce, honey, and dijon mustard, clings to the drumsticks, creating a satisfyingly sticky texture. The simplicity of this recipe belies the depth of flavor achieved. It's perfect for dinner parties, summer barbecues, or even a cozy night in.
All the ingredients for this recipe are commonly available in supermarkets. However, Dijon mustard might not be a staple in some households. It is a type of mustard developed in the city of Dijon in France. It's known for its smooth texture and robust, tangy flavor that provides a kick to the sticky sauce. When shopping, ensure you pick up a good quality barbecue sauce, as this forms the base flavor for our sticky sauce.
Ingredients for Sticky Chicken Drumsticks
Chicken drumsticks: The star of the dish. Pick drumsticks that are plump and have a good skin to meat ratio. The skin is where we get our beautiful sticky texture from, so more is better.
Barbecue sauce: Forms the base of our sticky sauce. A good quality sauce will provide a depth of flavor.
Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the tang of the barbecue sauce and mustard. It also helps in achieving the sticky texture.
Garlic: Provides a pungent, savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the sauce.
Dijon mustard: Gives a tangy kick to the sauce, enhancing its flavor profile.
One reader, Elinore Donnelly says:
This sticky chicken drumsticks recipe is a game-changer! The sauce is the perfect blend of sweet and tangy, and the chicken comes out so juicy and flavorful. It's a hit with my family every time I make it. Plus, it's super easy to prepare. Highly recommend trying it out!
Key Techniques for Perfecting Sticky Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
How to prepare the sticky sauce: Mix the barbecue sauce, honey, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl until well combined.
How to brush the chicken with sauce: Use a basting brush to evenly coat the chicken drumsticks with the prepared sticky sauce before placing them on the parchment-lined baking pan.
How to bake the chicken: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and bake the chicken drumsticks for 20 minutes. After the initial baking, brush the drumsticks with more sauce, turning them to coat well, then continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F and the sauce becomes sticky.
How to serve: Arrange the sticky chicken drumsticks on a serving platter and enjoy!
How To Make Sticky Chicken Drumsticks
Enjoy chicken drumsticks glazed with a tasty BBQ sauce then oven-baked to sticky, golden-brown perfection! Try this simple and easy recipe now!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3lbschicken drumsticks
For Sticky Sauce:
- 1cupbarbecue sauce
- ¼cuphoneyor brown sugar
- 3clovesgarlicminced
- 1tbspDijon mustard
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
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Mix all the sticky sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
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Brush the chicken with sauce and place on a parchment-lined pan.
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Bake for 20 minutes. After baking, brush with more sauce, turning the chicken to coat well.
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Bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F and the sauce becomes sticky.
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Serve Sticky Chicken Drumsticks and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
You can also transfer the drumsticks to a foil-lined pan and broil it on low for 2 to 3 minutes to brown the skin. If available, you may also garnish with green onions. If you can’t find any chicken drumsticks, bone-in chicken thighs can be a substitute for this recipe.
Nutrition
- Calories: 1481.48kcal
- Fat: 21.26g
- Saturated Fat: 5.61g
- Trans Fat: 0.11g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.53g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.53g
- Carbohydrates: 299.67g
- Fiber: 1.24g
- Sugar: 294.27g
- Protein: 42.61g
- Cholesterol: 208.65mg
- Sodium: 772.39mg
- Calcium: 58.56mg
- Potassium: 775.36mg
- Iron: 3.41mg
- Vitamin A: 37.12µg
- Vitamin C: 2.46mg
Expert Technique Tip for Nailing Sticky Chicken Drumsticks
To ensure your chicken drumsticks are fully coated in the sticky sauce, you might want to consider using a zip-top bag. Place the drumsticks and half of the sauce in the bag, seal it, and then shake it around until all the drumsticks are coated. This method can help to evenly distribute the sauce over each drumstick. Remember to reserve some sauce for basting during the baking process.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Sticky Chicken Drumsticks
Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken drumsticks the night before to allow the flavors to infuse, saving time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-made sauce: Opt for store-bought barbecue sauce to save time on making the sticky sauce from scratch.
Line the pan: Use parchment paper to line the baking pan for easy cleanup, saving time on washing up.
Double the batch: Make extra sticky chicken drumsticks and freeze them for a quick and convenient meal option on busy days.
Invest in a meat thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the correct temperature, saving time and avoiding overcooking.
Substitute Ingredients For Sticky Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
chicken drumsticks - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for drumsticks as they are also dark meat and will provide a similar flavor and juiciness to the dish.
barbecue sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce can be used as a substitute for barbecue sauce to provide a different flavor profile with a slightly sweet and savory taste.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for honey to provide a similar level of sweetness with a hint of caramelized flavor.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic to provide a convenient alternative with a milder flavor.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard can be used as a substitute for Dijon mustard to provide a similar tangy flavor with added texture from the mustard seeds.
Best Way to Present These Delectable Drumsticks
Elevate the plating: Arrange the sticky chicken drumsticks in a circular pattern on a large, white, oval-shaped platter, allowing the rich, glossy sauce to glisten under the spotlight.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped chives and parsley over the chicken to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Place a small mound of crispy, golden-brown shoestring fries in the center of the platter to provide a delightful contrast in texture to the succulent chicken.
Add a touch of elegance with edible flowers: Artfully place a few delicate, vibrant edible flowers around the platter to introduce a sense of refinement and sophistication to the presentation.
Create a harmonious balance: Accompany the dish with a side of vibrant, seasonal vegetables, such as grilled asparagus and heirloom carrots, to offer a well-rounded and visually appealing culinary experience.
Enhance with a drizzle: Just before serving, drizzle a hint of the sticky sauce over the entire platter, creating a captivating sheen and adding a final touch of luscious flavor to the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Sticky Chicken Drumsticks
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for roasting, baking, and heating food.
- Parchment paper: A heat-resistant and non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets and pans.
- Small bowl: A container used for mixing and holding small amounts of ingredients.
- Basting brush: A kitchen utensil with bristles used for applying sauces and marinades to food.
- Meat thermometer: A tool used to measure the internal temperature of meat to ensure it is cooked thoroughly.
- Baking pan: A metal or glass pan used for baking and roasting food in the oven.
Storing and Freezing Tips for Sticky Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
- Let the sticky chicken drumsticks cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To freeze the drumsticks, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- When ready to reheat, thaw the frozen chicken drumsticks in the refrigerator overnight. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the thawed drumsticks on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Alternatively, you can reheat the drumsticks in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they are safe to consume.
- If you have leftover sticky sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can use it to baste the reheated drumsticks or as a dipping sauce for added flavor.
How To Reheat Leftover Sticky Chicken Drumsticks
The best way to reheat leftover sticky chicken drumsticks is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them with a little extra barbecue sauce or honey to help retain moisture and prevent them from drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the skin is crispy again.
Another option is to reheat the chicken drumsticks in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the drumsticks in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are heated through and the skin is crispy.
For a quick and easy method, you can also reheat the sticky chicken drumsticks in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Keep in mind that the skin may not be as crispy as when reheated in the oven or air fryer.
If you want to add a little extra flavor to your leftover chicken drumsticks, consider slicing them and tossing them in a skillet with some diced onions, peppers, and a splash of barbecue sauce. Stir-fry over medium heat until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is heated through. Serve over rice or in a wrap for a delicious and easy meal.
Fascinating Fact About Sticky Chicken Drumsticks
The sticky chicken drumsticks recipe is a popular dish in many cultures and is often enjoyed at barbecues and gatherings. It is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit different tastes by adjusting the seasonings and sauces used. The combination of barbecue sauce, honey, garlic, and Dijon mustard creates a sweet and savory glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken, giving it a sticky and flavorful coating. This dish is a great option for a family dinner or a party, as it is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the sticky chicken drumsticks with your favorite sides for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Is Making Sticky Chicken Drumsticks at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this sticky chicken drumsticks recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as chicken drumsticks, barbecue sauce, and honey, are commonly found in households. The recipe provides a substantial amount of protein and flavor, making it a satisfying and economical choice. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15, depending on the quality of the ingredients. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Are Sticky Chicken Drumsticks Healthy or Unhealthy?
The sticky chicken drumsticks recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to the high sugar content in the sauce. The combination of barbecue sauce and honey can add a significant amount of sugar and calories to the dish. Additionally, the recipe does not include any vegetables or complex carbohydrates, which are essential for a balanced meal.
However, there are some positive aspects to this recipe. Chicken drumsticks are a good source of protein, which is important for building and repairing tissues in the body. The garlic in the sauce also provides some health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of barbecue sauce and honey in the sticky sauce to lower the sugar content
- Use a low-sugar or sugar-free barbecue sauce as an alternative
- Incorporate vegetables into the dish, such as roasting broccoli or carrots alongside the chicken
- Serve the drumsticks with a side of quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and complex carbohydrates
- Remove the skin from the drumsticks to reduce the fat content
- Use skinless chicken breasts instead of drumsticks for a leaner protein option
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the flavors of the sticky chicken drumsticks while also creating a more balanced and nutritious meal.
Editor's Take on This Mouthwatering Recipe
This sticky chicken drumsticks recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The barbecue sauce, honey, garlic, and Dijon mustard create a rich and sticky glaze that perfectly coats the tender chicken drumsticks. The cooking method ensures that the chicken is juicy on the inside and caramelized on the outside. It's a simple yet impressive dish that will surely be a hit at any gathering.
Why trust this Sticky Chicken Drumsticks Recipe:
This sticky chicken drumsticks recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of succulent chicken drumsticks and the irresistible sticky sauce made with barbecue sauce, honey, garlic, and dijon mustard creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The meticulous instructions ensure that the chicken is perfectly cooked, tender, and juicy, while the sticky sauce caramelizes to perfection. Trust the expertise of a seasoned chef and indulge in this foolproof recipe that promises to elevate your dining experience.
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