Sticky Chinese Plum Chicken Drumsticks

The sticky Chinese plum chicken drumsticks are an irresistible treat, with the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The glossy plum sauce gives the chicken a beautiful glaze that will have everyone reaching for more. The golden-brown crust on each drumstick adds a satisfying crunch to the tender, juicy meat inside.

These drumsticks are ideal for a cozy dinner with the family or a quick weeknight meal that feels special. The easy-to-make sauce takes these chicken pieces to the next level, while the presentation with green onions and sesame seeds makes them look as good as they taste. Plus, they’re so easy to make, you’ll be able to enjoy this delicious dish in under 40 minutes!

Full Recipe:

• 8 chicken drumsticks

• 1/4 cup Chinese plum sauce

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon grated ginger

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 2 tablespoons water

• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels and season with a little salt and pepper.

3. In a small saucepan, combine the plum sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

4. Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the sauce to thicken. Continue simmering for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.

5. Arrange the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush generously with the sauce mixture.

6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through and basting with the sauce to ensure even coating.

7. Once golden and crispy, remove the drumsticks from the oven.

8. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Sticky Chinese Plum Chicken Drumsticks: A Flavorful and Easy Recipe

The Appeal of Sticky Chinese Plum Chicken Drumsticks

Sticky Chinese plum chicken drumsticks are a deliciously flavorful dish that brings together the sweetness of plum sauce with the savory richness of chicken. This dish is easy to make, yet packed with bold flavors, making it a perfect addition to any dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe will surely impress. The drumsticks are crispy on the outside with a sweet and tangy glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.

A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

This recipe for sticky Chinese plum chicken drumsticks is incredibly versatile. It works as a weeknight dinner, a special weekend meal, or even as an appetizer for a party or gathering. The dish is easy to prepare, making it a convenient choice for busy cooks who want to serve something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen. Pair it with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad to create a complete meal.

The sweetness of the plum sauce combined with the savory flavors of the chicken can be customized to suit your personal taste. Whether you prefer a milder sauce or a more intense flavor, you can adjust the ingredients to match your preference. Additionally, you can make this dish as spicy or as mild as you like by adding chili flakes or fresh chili to the glaze.

How to Achieve the Perfect Glaze

One of the key elements to making sticky Chinese plum chicken drumsticks stand out is the glaze. The glaze should be thick, glossy, and slightly sticky, clinging to the surface of the chicken without running off. To achieve this, it’s important to reduce the sauce on the stovetop, allowing the flavors to concentrate and the liquid to thicken.

Start by simmering the plum sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and other seasonings in a saucepan over medium heat. Allow the sauce to cook down and thicken, then whisk in cornstarch dissolved in water to help the sauce achieve the right consistency. Once the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, it’s ready to be brushed on the chicken.

As the drumsticks bake in the oven, make sure to baste them periodically with the plum glaze. This will help the sauce adhere to the skin and create that irresistible sticky texture. The result will be golden-brown, glazed drumsticks that are perfect for devouring.

Variations and Customizations

While the classic version of sticky Chinese plum chicken drumsticks is delicious on its own, there are many ways to customize the dish to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations to try:

• Spicy Plum Drumsticks: Add a kick of heat to your dish by incorporating chili flakes, sriracha sauce, or finely chopped fresh chilies into the plum sauce. This spicy version pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the plum sauce and creates a balance of heat and sweetness.

• Garlic-Infused Drumsticks: For a stronger garlic flavor, sauté minced garlic in a bit of oil before adding it to the plum sauce. This will infuse the glaze with a rich garlic aroma that complements the chicken beautifully.

• Honey-Balsamic Glaze: For a twist on the classic plum sauce, try using a combination of honey and balsamic vinegar to create a sweet and tangy glaze. This variation adds depth and a slight acidity to the dish.

• Lemon Plum Chicken: If you prefer a more citrus-forward flavor, add a splash of lemon juice to the plum sauce. The bright, zesty flavor of lemon will contrast nicely with the sweetness of the plum sauce.

• Crispy Chicken Drumsticks: For extra crunch, coat the drumsticks in a layer of breadcrumbs or cornstarch before baking. This will create a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the sticky, juicy interior.

Serving Suggestions for Sticky Chinese Plum Chicken Drumsticks

Sticky Chinese plum chicken drumsticks are best served with sides that complement the sweetness and richness of the chicken. A simple bowl of steamed white rice or fried rice is a classic choice. The rice will soak up the extra sauce, making each bite more satisfying.

For a healthier option, consider pairing the drumsticks with a fresh vegetable stir-fry. A mix of crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots will add color and texture to the meal while balancing out the rich flavors of the chicken.

You can also serve these drumsticks with a light salad to provide some freshness. A simple cucumber and tomato salad with a light vinaigrette will offer a refreshing contrast to the savory sweetness of the chicken.

If you’re serving this dish at a party or gathering, consider preparing it as an appetizer. The individual drumsticks are easy to eat with your hands, making them a great finger food option for guests.

Tips for the Best Sticky Chicken Drumsticks

To ensure your sticky Chinese plum chicken drumsticks turn out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:

• Pat the Chicken Dry: Before cooking, make sure to pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up during baking and ensures the glaze sticks to the chicken.

• Don’t Skip the Basting: Periodically baste the drumsticks with the glaze while they cook. This helps create a thick, sticky layer of sauce on the chicken and ensures it’s evenly coated.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.

• Adjust the Sauce: If the glaze is too thick, you can thin it out with a little water or chicken broth. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer for a little longer to reduce and thicken.

• Rest the Chicken: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures tender, moist meat.

Conclusion

Sticky Chinese plum chicken drumsticks are a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the crispy exterior and juicy interior, makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special event, these drumsticks are sure to impress. By following the tips and customizing the glaze to your taste, you can create a dish that’s perfectly suited to your preferences. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this delicious dish that’s both easy to make and full of flavor.