Sticky Orange Chicken Drumsticks Recipe: A Delicious and Flavorful Dish

Are you looking for a mouthwatering and easy-to-make chicken recipe that will leave your taste buds craving for more? Look no further than the Sticky Orange Chicken Drumsticks recipe. This delectable dish combines the tangy sweetness of oranges with the savory flavors of chicken, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of preparing this delightful recipe, along with some valuable insights and tips to enhance your cooking experience.

The Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients required to make Sticky Orange Chicken Drumsticks:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s get started with the cooking process:

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

Begin by marinating the chicken drumsticks. In a large bowl, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, red pepper flakes (if desired), salt, and pepper. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved and the marinade is well combined.

Place the chicken drumsticks in the bowl and ensure they are fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to infuse into the chicken.

Step 2: Preparing the Sticky Orange Glaze

While the chicken is marinating, it’s time to prepare the sticky orange glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the remaining marinade with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water. Stir well to dissolve the cornstarch completely.

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze thickens and becomes glossy. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Cooking the Chicken Drumsticks

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken drumsticks from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off, and place them in the hot skillet.

Cook the drumsticks for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Glazing the Chicken

Once the chicken drumsticks are cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour the prepared sticky orange glaze over them. Use a spoon or brush to coat the drumsticks evenly with the glaze.

Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken and caramelize slightly. Make sure to turn the drumsticks occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pan.

Step 5: Serving and Garnishing

Remove the sticky orange chicken drumsticks from the pan and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an added touch of flavor and presentation.

These sticky orange chicken drumsticks are best served hot and fresh. They can be enjoyed as a main course alongside steamed rice or roasted vegetables. The tangy and sweet flavors of the orange glaze perfectly complement the juicy and tender chicken, making it a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to enhance your sticky orange chicken drumsticks recipe:

• For an extra burst of flavor, add some orange zest to the marinade.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
• Feel free to substitute chicken drumsticks with chicken thighs or wings, depending on your preference.
• For a healthier alternative, you can bake the chicken drumsticks in the oven instead of frying them. Simply preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
• Experiment with different garnishes such as chopped cilantro, sliced oranges, or toasted sesame seeds to add a personal touch to the dish.

Summary

The Sticky Orange Chicken Drumsticks recipe is a delightful combination of tangy and sweet flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With its easy-to-follow steps and readily available ingredients, this dish is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. The marinade infuses the chicken with a burst of citrusy goodness, while the sticky orange glaze adds a glossy and caramelized finish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious homemade meal, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your apron and get ready to indulge in the irresistible flavors of Sticky Orange Chicken Drumsticks!