Honey Chicken Drumsticks: A Flavorful and Savory Delight
Category: Main Course
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
If you’re looking for a savory dish that combines the natural sweetness of honey with the tang of lemon and a hint of spice, Honey Chicken Drumsticks is the recipe for you! The succulent chicken drumsticks are perfectly seasoned, then braised in a delicious honey glaze that is simply irresistible. This dish is both comforting and full of flavor, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or special occasions.
Let’s dive into how to make these flavorful drumsticks!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken drumsticks | 600g |
| Fine salt | to taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | to taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 30g |
| Water | 100g |
| Lemons | 4 |
| Sesame seeds | to taste |
| Chives | to taste |
| Fresh chili pepper | 1 |
| Chestnut honey | 80g |
| Balsamic vinegar | 20g |
| Fresh lemon juice | 40g |
| Ground chili pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fresh ginger (optional) | to taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken Drumsticks:
Start by preparing the chicken drumsticks. If there are any stray feathers, you can remove them by carefully burning them off with a flame. Then, rinse the drumsticks thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel. -
Season the Chicken:
Once the drumsticks are clean and dry, place them on a cutting board. Season them generously with fine salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. This will help bring out the natural flavors of the chicken. -
Searing the Drumsticks:
Heat 30g of extra virgin olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken drumsticks to the pan. Sear the chicken until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust, turning the drumsticks occasionally using tongs or a kitchen spatula to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. This should take about 10 minutes. -
Making the Honey Sauce:
While the chicken is searing, let’s prepare the honey sauce. In a medium-sized bowl, combine 80g of chestnut honey, 40g of fresh lemon juice, 20g of balsamic vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground chili pepper. Stir the mixture with a teaspoon until it’s well combined. -
Simmer the Drumsticks:
Once the drumsticks are nicely seared, pour the honey sauce over them, one spoonful at a time, ensuring that each piece gets coated evenly. Add 100g of room temperature water to the pan, then cover it with a lid. Let the chicken simmer on low heat for 25 minutes, stirring the drumsticks occasionally to ensure that they soak up the flavors of the sauce. -
Finishing Touches:
After the cooking time is complete, remove the lid and check the consistency of the sauce. If it has thickened nicely and the chicken is cooked through, it’s time to finish the dish. Slice up the lemons into thin wedges and add them to the pan. Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the sauce has become beautifully glossy and sticky. -
Garnish and Serve:
Once the sauce has thickened and the chicken is perfectly cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish the drumsticks with sesame seeds, freshly chopped chives, slices of lemon, and thinly sliced fresh chili pepper. These garnishes not only add flavor but also a lovely burst of color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Honey Chicken Drumsticks hot, accompanied by a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. The sweet, tangy sauce pairs beautifully with a bowl of fluffy rice or crusty bread for soaking up the sauce. For an extra punch of flavor, you could drizzle a little more honey or balsamic vinegar over the top just before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Protein | ~30g |
| Total Fat | ~20g |
| Saturated Fat | ~4g |
| Carbohydrates | ~25g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sugars | ~20g |
| Sodium | ~350mg |
| Vitamin C | ~30% DV |
Tips & Variations:
- Add More Spice: If you love spice, you can increase the amount of fresh chili or add some chili flakes to the sauce. This will give the dish an extra kick.
- Vegan Alternative: For a vegan twist, try replacing the chicken with seitan or tempeh and using maple syrup in place of the honey.
- Make It Smoky: Add a touch of smoked paprika to the sauce for a smoky undertone that complements the sweetness of the honey.
This Honey Chicken Drumsticks recipe is a simple yet delicious dish that will surely become a family favorite. With its balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for more!
Enjoy your cooking, and don’t forget to share the love with family and friends!
