Get ready for a flavor explosion! These Korean drumsticks aren't your average chicken recipe; they're a symphony of sweet, spicy, and savory notes that will have you licking your fingers clean. Imagine perfectly crispy, golden-brown chicken legs, coated in a glistening sauce that's both intensely flavorful and surprisingly addictive. The secret lies in a masterful blend of gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, honey, and a touch of sesame oil, creating a complex depth that will tantalize your taste buds. Forget bland chicken – this recipe is a culinary adventure waiting to happen.
This irresistible recipe elevates simple chicken drumsticks to a whole new level of deliciousness, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The vibrant colors and aromatic spices will make your mouth water just looking at them. Ready to transform ordinary chicken into an extraordinary dish? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create some magic in the kitchen!
Tools Needed
- Bowl
- Resealable plastic bag or shallow dish
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack or roasting pan with rack
- Small saucepan
Ingredients
- Soy sauce: 1/2 cup
- Honey: 1/4 cup
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste): 1/4 cup
- Sesame oil: 2 tbsp
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 1 inch piece, minced
- Rice vinegar: 2 tbsp
- Brown sugar: 2 tbsp
- Crushed red pepper flakes: a pinch (optional)
- Chicken drumsticks: 8
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare & Marinate
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, gochujang, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until the sugar dissolves.
- Place the chicken drumsticks in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each drumstick is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
Step 2. Bake the Drumsticks
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Arrange the marinated drumsticks on the wire rack, ensuring they are not touching each other. Reserve the remaining marinade.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and has a caramelized glaze.
Step 3. Make & Apply Glaze
- Pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until thickened.
- During the last 10 minutes of baking, brush the thickened marinade over the drumsticks.
Step 4. Serve
- Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve with steamed rice and your favorite side dishes.
Read more: Perfect Korean BBQ Pork: Yangnyeom Teji Galbi Recipe
Tips
- For extra spice, add more crushed red pepper flakes.
- Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight will enhance the flavor.
- Using a wire rack ensures even cooking and crispy drumsticks.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Absolutely! Bone-in, skin-on thighs will work perfectly. Adjust cooking time as needed, as they may take slightly longer to cook through.
2. How long can I store leftover Korean drumsticks?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They're delicious cold or reheated.
3. What can I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
If too thick, add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth at a time until you reach your desired consistency. If too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the sauce.
These Korean drumsticks are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. From weeknight dinners to game-day gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. So, get cooking and prepare to be amazed by the irresistible taste of these flavorful chicken drumsticks!