Name: Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 8 chicken drumsticks; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying); ¼ cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 3 tablespoons honey; 3 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste); 2 teaspoons sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish); 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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If you’re craving something sweet, savory, and full of flavor, look no further than these Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks! This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, sticky glaze made from the vibrant and flavorful ingredients of Korean cuisine. The sweet and savory sauce, made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of heat, coats the drumsticks beautifully, creating an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

The best part of this recipe is how simple it is to make, yet it feels like a special treat. The drumsticks are first marinated to soak up the flavors and then baked or grilled to perfection. The glaze caramelizes as it cooks, creating a sticky, finger-licking finish. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner, a weekend barbecue, or a gathering with friends, these Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks will undoubtedly become a favorite on your menu.

This recipe brings a bit of Korean flair to your dinner table, balancing bold flavors with comforting chicken. It’s the ideal dish for anyone looking to add a touch of excitement to their meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold, Flavorful Glaze

The sweet, savory, and slightly spicy Korean glaze is the star of this dish. It’s perfectly balanced and adds tons of flavor.

2. Simple Ingredients

With a few pantry staples like soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey, you can create a rich and delicious glaze that makes the chicken shine.

3. Versatile Cooking Methods

These drumsticks can be baked, grilled, or even air-fried, allowing you to choose the method that works best for you.

4. Family-Friendly

The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes this recipe a hit with both kids and adults alike.

5. Quick to Make

While the chicken needs a bit of time to marinate, the cooking process is quick, making this recipe ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.

Ingredients

Chicken drumsticks
Soy sauce
Sesame oil
Honey
Brown sugar
Garlic, minced
Fresh ginger, grated
Rice vinegar
Chili flakes (optional for heat)
Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
Green onions, chopped, for garnish

Variations

Spicy Option: Add more chili flakes or a splash of gochujang (Korean chili paste) for a spicier kick.
Vegan Version: Replace the chicken with plant-based “drumsticks” or tofu and use a vegan-friendly honey substitute like maple syrup.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an extra layer of flavor.
Grilled Variation: Instead of baking, cook the chicken on the grill for a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet glaze.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and chili flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken drumsticks in a large ziplock bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated well. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven (or Grill)

If baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

For Baking: Arrange the marinated drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

For Grilling: Grill the drumsticks for 20-25 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. Baste the chicken with the remaining marinade during the last few minutes of grilling.

Step 5: Glaze the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, brush the drumsticks with any remaining glaze and return them to the oven or grill for an additional 5 minutes to caramelize the glaze.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the drumsticks from the oven or grill, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions, and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Marinate Longer: For more intense flavor, marinate the chicken for 4 hours or overnight.
Baste with the Glaze: Reserve a little marinade to baste the chicken while cooking to ensure maximum flavor and a glossy finish.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfect tenderness.

How to Serve

Serve these Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks with steamed rice, kimchi, or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve them with some roasted vegetables or stir-fried greens for added nutrition.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Freezing

You can freeze the glazed chicken drumsticks for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool them completely before freezing in a single layer. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.

Reheating

Reheat the drumsticks in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If using the microwave, heat for 2-3 minutes, depending on the size of the drumsticks.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may cook faster than drumsticks.

2. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Increase the chili flakes or add a spoonful of gochujang (Korean chili paste) for a spicier version.

3. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

4. Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, grilling adds a great smoky flavor to the chicken. Just make sure to baste the chicken with the glaze as it grills.

5. How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate for at least 1 hour, but for best results, marinate overnight.

6. Can I use another sweetener instead of honey?

Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar.

7. Is it okay to use regular soy sauce instead of low-sodium?

You can, but the sauce will be saltier. If using regular soy sauce, consider reducing the amount of additional salt in the recipe.

8. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

9. Can I cook these drumsticks in an air fryer?

Yes, air frying is a great option for crispy drumsticks. Cook them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

10. How can I make this dish more flavorful?

Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like a splash of sesame vinegar, a drizzle of toasted sesame oil, or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion

These Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks are a delicious combination of bold flavors and juicy chicken, making them the perfect choice for any meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a meal that feels special but is quick and easy to prepare. Try this recipe today, and savor the sweet and savory goodness of Korean cuisine right at home!