Sweet & Savory Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Get ready for a delicious treat with these sweet and savory glazed chicken drumsticks! This recipe brings together crispy, juicy chicken with a sticky glaze that’s packed with flavor. Each drumstick is fried to golden perfection, then coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce that will make this dish an instant favorite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a cozy night in, these drumsticks deliver big on flavor and satisfaction.

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Why You’ll Love These Glazed Drumsticks

These drumsticks are everything you could want in a dish: crispy, juicy, and loaded with flavor! The combination of the crispy fried coating with a sticky, savory glaze is just irresistible. Plus, with ingredients you likely have on hand, you can whip this up anytime a craving hits. Each bite balances the sweetness from honey, the umami of soy sauce, and a hint of spice from optional chili flakes, making it a dish that’ll be requested on repeat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Drumsticks

• Chicken Drumsticks: 6-8 – Choose drumsticks for a juicy, flavorful cut that’s perfect for frying.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste – Basic seasoning that brings out the natural flavor of the chicken.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup – Creates a light coating for that perfect crispy crust.
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon – Adds mild spice and color to the coating.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon – Infuses each drumstick with subtle garlicky goodness.
• Oil: For frying – Choose a high-heat oil like vegetable or canola for best results.

For the Glaze

• Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup – Adds a salty, umami base for the glaze.
• Honey: 1/4 cup – Brings sweetness that balances the soy sauce and creates a sticky glaze.
• Ketchup: 1/4 cup – Adds tanginess and thickness to the glaze.
• Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon – Enhances the sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Minced Garlic: 1 tablespoon – Fresh garlic boosts the aroma and taste of the glaze.
• Chili Flakes: 1 teaspoon (optional) – Adds a gentle kick of heat, perfect for those who like a little spice.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Sweet & Savory Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

First, pat the drumsticks dry with a paper towel. This step is important to ensure that the seasoning and coating stick well to the chicken and that you achieve a crispy crust. Once dry, season the drumsticks generously with salt and pepper on all sides.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. This flour mixture will coat the drumsticks, adding a layer of flavor and crispiness. Dredge each drumstick in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour to avoid clumping.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

In a deep skillet or pan, heat enough oil to submerge the drumsticks halfway. Medium heat works best for frying, ensuring the chicken cooks through without burning. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the drumsticks and fry them for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. The chicken should be golden and crispy on all sides. Once done, remove the drumsticks from the oil and set them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

In a separate pan, add 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1/4 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon of chili flakes (if using). Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the sauce begins to thicken, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent burning and help the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Coat the Drumsticks

Add the fried drumsticks to the pan with the glaze, tossing them gently to ensure each one is fully coated in the sticky sauce. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to cling to the drumsticks for an irresistibly glossy finish. Remove from heat.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the glazed drumsticks hot and enjoy their crispy, saucy goodness. These drumsticks pair wonderfully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Tips for Perfect Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

1. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
2. Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add additional spices like cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or ginger powder to the flour mixture for a unique twist.
3. Double the Glaze: If you love extra sauce, consider doubling the glaze ingredients so you have plenty for drizzling over rice or veggies.

Serving Suggestions

• Over Rice: The sweet and savory sauce pairs perfectly with steamed white or jasmine rice, which helps soak up every bit of that delicious glaze.
• With Veggies: Serve alongside roasted or stir-fried veggies, such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers, for a balanced meal.
• As a Party Snack: These drumsticks make an awesome appetizer or snack for game day, family gatherings, or a casual get-together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bake Instead of Fry?

Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the drumsticks at 400°F (200°C) for about 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through. Once baked, coat them in the glaze as described above.

What’s the Best Oil for Frying?

Opt for oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil, for even frying and a light, crisp crust.

Can I Use Chicken Wings Instead?

Definitely! Chicken wings work beautifully with this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time, as wings may cook faster.

How Can I Make it Spicier?

For those who like it hot, add a dash of hot sauce to the glaze or increase the chili flakes to amp up the heat.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Glazed Drumsticks

This recipe combines the perfect crunch with a sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy glaze that’s both comforting and indulgent. With minimal prep time and ingredients, it’s a great recipe to add to your weeknight dinner rotation or to whip up when entertaining. Once you take a bite of these glazed drumsticks, you’ll understand why they’re such a hit the crispy exterior, juicy interior, and bold, sticky glaze are simply irresistible.

So, grab those drumsticks, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking. These sweet and savory glazed chicken drumsticks are about to be your new favorite comfort food! 🍗