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Homemade Sweet and Spicy Chicken Drumsticks photo
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Sweet and Spicy Chicken Drumsticks

Tender drumsticks glazed in a sweet-spicy hoisin and chili sauce with bright mandarin notes.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time50 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8-10 chicken drumsticks
  • 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 mandarin orange zest and juice of
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • sesame seeds for garnish
  • parsley finely chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a cooling rack on top; lightly spray the rack with nonstick cooking spray.
  • In a small saucepan off the heat, combine the sweet chili sauce, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, sesame oil, soy sauce, mandarin orange zest and juice, and salt and pepper; stir until well mixed.
  • Dip each chicken drumstick into the sauce to coat, then arrange the drumsticks on the prepared rack and reserve the saucepan with the remaining sauce.
  • Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the leftover sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and glossy.
  • Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes, basting generously with the simmered sauce 2–3 more times during cooking, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is caramelized.
  • Transfer the cooked drumsticks to a serving platter, sprinkle with sesame seeds and finely chopped parsley, and serve.

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • cooling rack
  • Small Saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Tongs

Notes

  • Use a cooling rack over the sheet to allow even air circulation.
  • Baste 2–3 times for a sticky, caramelized glaze.
  • Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer.