Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor and has a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a hint of heat, look no further than these Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender chicken drumsticks with a deliciously sticky Korean-inspired glaze made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and the perfect amount of garlic and ginger. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a weeknight meal, or preparing a special treat for the family, these drumsticks will be a hit at your dinner table. The combination of rich flavors and the satisfying crunch of sesame seeds and green onions on top will surely elevate any meal.

Not only is this dish full of bold flavors, but it’s also relatively simple to make. With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, you’ll be able to prepare this meal in no time. The sweet and tangy glaze coats the chicken beautifully, creating a flavorful crust that pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or vegetables. It’s an incredibly versatile recipe that works perfectly as a main course, appetizer, or even a meal prep option for the week ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold Flavors

The soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and sesame oil create an irresistible glaze with a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory notes.

2. Simple Ingredients

This recipe uses everyday ingredients like garlic, ginger, and sesame seeds, making it easy to whip up with items you likely already have in your pantry.

3. Crispy, Tender Chicken

The chicken drumsticks are perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside, thanks to the glaze.

4. Great for Meal Prep

Make a big batch and have this dish ready for lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavor improves as it sits, making it even better the next day.

5. Crowd-Pleaser

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a gathering, these Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks are sure to be a crowd favorite with their flavor-packed sauce and satisfying crunch.

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Ingredients

• Sesame oil
• Cornstarch
• Soy sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Brown sugar
• Minced garlic
• Ground ginger
• Sesame seeds
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Chicken drumsticks
• Green onions (sliced, for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Variations

• Spicy Option: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of sriracha to the glaze to ramp up the heat.
• Honey Glaze: For a slightly sweeter alternative, swap the brown sugar for honey to create a smooth, honey-based glaze.
• Chicken Wings: If you prefer chicken wings, simply use wings instead of drumsticks and follow the same cooking steps.
• Citrus Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lime or orange juice to the glaze for a citrusy zing.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help them crisp up during cooking.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together the sesame oil and cornstarch until smooth. In a saucepan, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the mixture begins to thicken, remove it from heat and stir in the cornstarch mixture. Continue stirring until the glaze becomes thick and sticky.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the chicken drumsticks in the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your pan.

Step 4: Coat with Glaze

Once the chicken drumsticks are cooked through, reduce the heat to low. Pour the prepared glaze over the chicken, making sure each drumstick is generously coated. Let the chicken simmer in the glaze for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken further and stick to the drumsticks.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the glazed drumsticks to a serving platter. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish before serving. Serve with steamed rice or vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken is cooked evenly by turning the drumsticks regularly while cooking. You can also use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Make the Glaze Ahead: Prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to cook, just heat it and coat the chicken.
• Baking Option: For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken drumsticks at 425°F for about 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, and then coat with the glaze at the end.
• Leftover Glaze: If you have leftover glaze, use it as a dipping sauce or drizzle it over rice or vegetables for extra flavor.

How to Serve

These Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Serve them with steamed white or brown rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple cucumber salad. For a more complete meal, try them with a side of kimchi for an authentic Korean touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the chicken has cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the drumsticks crispy, reheat them in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked drumsticks with the glaze. Allow the chicken to cool, then place it in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken in the oven to maintain its crispy texture, or microwave for a quicker option, although the crispy skin may not stay intact.

FAQs

1. Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute drumsticks with chicken thighs or breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make the glaze without cornstarch?

Yes, you can omit the cornstarch, but the glaze will be slightly thinner. To thicken without cornstarch, simmer the glaze for a little longer.

3. Can I use a different oil for the glaze?

While sesame oil adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with vegetable or olive oil if needed.

4. Can I make this recipe spicier?

Absolutely! Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to increase the heat.

5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.

6. Can I grill these drumsticks?

Yes, you can grill the chicken drumsticks over medium-high heat for about 25-30 minutes, brushing with the glaze during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

7. Can I double the glaze recipe?

Yes, you can double the glaze if you prefer more sauce to coat the chicken or for dipping.

8. Can I make this recipe without sesame seeds?

Yes, you can skip the sesame seeds, but they do add a nice crunch and flavor to the dish.

9. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook the drumsticks ahead of time, but it’s best to glaze them just before serving to keep the sauce fresh and sticky.

10. How many drumsticks does this recipe serve?

This recipe is designed to serve 4 people, but you can adjust the quantity as needed.

Conclusion

These Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks are the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, making them a fantastic option for any dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, these drumsticks will surely become a new favorite. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you can enjoy a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal at home. So, fire up your skillet, glaze those drumsticks, and prepare to be wowed by this delicious Korean-inspired dish!

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