Chinese Barbecued Baby Drumsticks
Juicy, flavorful Chinese-style baby drumsticks with a sweet and savory glaze, perfect for grilled or oven-baked fans of bold, aromatic Asian flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Separate each wing into 3 pieces and discard the tips.
- Marinate the wings with sugar, vinegar, crushed garlic, ground pepper, soy sauce, brown sugar, ground ginger, and chicken broth for about 2 hours, turning occasionally to ensure all pieces are covered.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the marinated wings in a shallow pan, uncovered.
- Bake for 1 hour or longer, turning once and basting 2 or 3 times during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of sesame oil to the marinade. If you want a spicier kick, add some chili flakes or sriracha. If you don't have chicken broth, vegetable broth can work as a substitute. You can also use drumsticks instead of wings for a meatier option. This recipe is inspired by other delicious Chinese recipes, so feel free to experiment with additional spices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Chinese Barbecued Baby Drumsticks with steamed rice or fried rice for a complete meal. They pair well with fresh vegetables or a simple salad. For a fun twist, try them alongside other chicken recipes like Chicken Hekka or Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them on medium power, but the oven will help retain their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Barbecued Baby Drumsticks contains roughly 938 calories, with 40g protein, 233g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (315% of the Daily Value), iron (197% of the Daily Value), and calcium (118% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 88g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavors even more. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated during that time. The longer marination can help tenderize the meat and infuse it with the marinade's sweetness and umami.
What can I substitute for sugar in the marinade?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can use honey or agave syrup instead of sugar. Both provide sweetness and will caramelize nicely during baking. Adjust the quantity to taste, as they may be sweeter than granulated sugar.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Absolutely! Grilling these drumsticks will add a wonderful smoky flavor. After marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high and cook them for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).