Sesame Chicken Drumsticks
Juicy sesame chicken drumsticks coated in a savory honey-soy glaze with aromatic garlic and ginger, perfect for casual dinners or family gatherings. Rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, combine water, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and freshly ground ginger. Bring to a boil and cook for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add the chicken drumsticks to the skillet and marinate in a cold place for about 2 hours.
- Preheat the oven. Line a glass baking dish with aluminum foil and place the marinated chicken inside.
- Bake the chicken, basting with marinade every 10 to 15 minutes, until cooked through and golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the baking dish. Pour the sauce from the dish and leftover marinade into a pan.
- Cook the sauce over medium heat until only half remains, stirring constantly.
- Pour the thickened sauce over the cooked chicken and serve with rice or mashed potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight instead of just 2 hours. If you don’t have fresh ginger, ground ginger can be used as a substitute, but reduce the amount to 1/2 teaspoon. Using low-sodium soy sauce will help control the saltiness of the dish. For added crunch, sprinkle extra sesame seeds on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sesame chicken drumsticks with steamed rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with a side of Eggdrop Soup or a fresh salad. For a complete feast, consider including Chinese recipes like Sweet And Sour Stir-Fry Chicken And Vegetables to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover sesame chicken drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but this may affect the crispiness of the skin.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sesame Chicken Drumsticks contains roughly 52 calories, with 2g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 520mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
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 use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or wings instead of drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time, as smaller pieces like wings will cook faster. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What can I do if I don’t have honey?
If you don’t have honey, you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. Brown sugar mixed with a little water can also work in a pinch, but adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or sriracha into the marinade. Alternatively, you can serve the chicken with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for an extra kick.
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).