Introduction:
The chicken drumsticks are juicy meat that can be prepared by any cooking method, including roasting, grilling, or baking. In this recipe, tender chicken is marinated in an enticing sauce topped with a golden brown finish. It is ideal for family dinners or even for casual gatherings as it will surely be a hit.
Ingredients:
6-8 chicken legs
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tsp crushed garlic powder (or use garlic by finely chopping 2 cloves)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon black pepper grounded
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, give spice to the dish)
Juice of 1 lemon/lime
Instructions:
- Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, peppers, salt, chili flakes, and the remainder of the lemon juice. Stir to combine.
- Place Chicken in the Marinade:
Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl or clean resealable baggie.
Drizzle the marinade over the chicken drumsticks; make sure all drumsticks are fully coated.
Refrigerate the bowl or a bag for at least 1 hour or preferably up to 24 hours for appealing taste. If using a bowl, Cover it tightly.
- Drumsticks Baking:
The oven should be preheated to around 200°C (400°F) temperature, or a grill is set to medium heat.
Place the drumsticks in a baking tray lined with parchment paper or a greased ovenproof dish.
Place in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, turning after the midpoint, und until the skin is turned crisp and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75 °C (165 °F).
For grilling, 20-25 minutes are enough, making sure to turn the meat continuously to prevent it from burning.
- Glaze and Serve:
In the last 10 minutes, coat the drumsticks with the remaining marinade for the last time to achieve a caramelized finish.
After 5 minutes, the dish may be served.
Hints for Success:
To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken is well done but not dry.
To retain moisture, cover the baking tray with a sheet since the marinade is prone to occur and burn.
Periodically use the marinade to baste the chicken.
Health Benefits:
Chicken: Provides high quality protein, vitamin B6 and B12, and important minerals which include zinc.
Lemon Juice: Rich in vitamin C and gives a nice tangy taste.
Honey: Rich in antioxidants and imparts sweet taste.
Nutritional Information (Based on one serving):
Calories: ~230
Protein: 23g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 7g
Variations and Substitutions:
Flavor: For an herby flavor, add fresh rosemary or thyme in the recipe.
Sweetener: Replace honey with either maple syrup or agave nectar as a sweetener.
Spice: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you want a more heat in the marinade.
Vegetable Option: Marinate grilled vegetables like eggplant and zucchini in the marinade.
Conclusion:
These roasted or glazed chicken drumsticks are well balanced in terms of taste as they are savory, sweet and tangy at the same time. Highly delectable and easy to make, they are suitable for any occasion. Use them as is, enjoy the taste or use sides like roasted vegetables or a green garden salad!
