Caramelized Chicken Drumsticks

This delightful caramelized chicken drumsticks recipe offers a sweet and savory taste that will impress any crowd. This dish features tender chicken coated in a rich glaze made from honey, balsamic vinegar, and tomato paste, creating a delicious depth of flavor. The cooking process caramelizes the sauce, resulting in a glossy coating that enhances the chicken's taste and visual appeal. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, these drumsticks are guaranteed to be a hit. The recipe is simple to follow and requires only a few ingredients, making it a convenient option for any cook. The blend of spices, including garlic powder and sea salt, enhances the natural flavors of the chicken. With a balance of sweetness and acidity, these drumsticks are both satisfying and irresistible. This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes and can be adjusted to suit dietary preferences. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe offers a rewarding cooking experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 kg chicken drumsticks
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Spices

• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp sea salt
• A pinch of ground pepper

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by preparing the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine honey, balsamic vinegar, tomato paste, mustard, and brown sugar.
2. Add vegetable oil to the mixture, stirring it over medium heat.
3. Cook the glaze for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and intensify in flavor.
4. Set the glaze aside to cool slightly while you prepare the chicken.
5. Preheat your oven to 180°C (approximately 350°F).
6. Arrange the chicken drumsticks in a heatproof baking dish.
7. Evenly sprinkle the drumsticks with garlic powder, sea salt, and a pinch of ground pepper.
8. Gently toss the drumsticks to ensure they are well-coated with the spices.
9. Pour the prepared glaze over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly covered.
10. Use a spoon or your hands to rub the glaze into the drumsticks for maximum flavor.
11. Place the baking dish in the pre-heated oven.
12. Roast the chicken for 30-40 minutes, stopping every 10 minutes to rotate the drumsticks and spoon the glaze over them.
13. Check for doneness; the chicken should be tender and the glaze caramelized.
14. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds over the drumsticks before serving.
15. Transfer the caramelized chicken drumsticks to a serving plate.
16. Allow them to cool slightly before serving to prevent burning.
17. Pair with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
18. Enjoy the rich and savory flavors of the caramelized drumsticks.
19. Garnish with fresh herbs or chopped parsley for an extra touch.
20. Serve immediately and savor the delicious flavors!

Tips

• If you don't have balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar can be a good substitute.
• For those who prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze.
• Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) for safe consumption.
• Marinating the chicken in the glaze for a few hours prior to cooking can enhance the flavors.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 20g

Variations

• To accommodate gluten-free diets, ensure the mustard and other condiments are certified gluten-free.
• For a darker, richer glaze, use molasses instead of brown sugar.
• Vegetarians can substitute chicken drumsticks with firm tofu or tempeh.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with: Steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
• Garnish with: Fresh coriander or chopped chives for added freshness.
• Pair with: A chilled glass of white wine or lemonade for a refreshing complement.

Best Places

• The Chicken Shack - Offers a similar sweet and savory chicken dish. Location: 123 Food Lane, New York, USA.
• Taste of Harmony - Known for its fusion flavors, including a delightful caramelized chicken. Location: 456 Culinary Blvd, London, UK.
• Wing & Things - Specializes in various chicken recipes with a caramelized twist. Location: 789 Flavor Street, Melbourne, Australia.
• Caramelized Creations - A renowned eatery famed for its glazed chicken specialties. Location: 101 Delight Ave, Toronto, Canada.
• Savor Spot - Features a unique sweet and sour chicken dish. Location: 202 Gourmet Rd., Paris, France.
• Honey Glaze Hub - Offers dishes with a similar taste profile. Location: 303 Sucrose St., Rome, Italy.
• Zesty Eats - Known for its aromatic and flavorful chicken recipes. Location: 404 Aroma Lane, Mumbai, India.
• Flavors of Asia - Serves delicious Asian-inspired caramelized chickens. Location: 505 Spice Blvd, Tokyo, Japan.
• Grill & Glaze - Delivers classic dishes with a modern twist. Location: 606 Griddle Ave, Cape Town, South Africa.
• The Glazed Drum - Offers caramelized drumsticks renowned for their rich taste. Location: 707 Flavor Circle, Bangkok, Thailand.