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Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Korean Glazed Chicken Drumsticks are a quick and flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken coated in a sticky, sweet, savory, and mildly spicy Korean glaze made from soy sauce, gochujang, honey, and garlic. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, combining bold Korean flavors with a tender, caramelized finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 8 chicken drumsticks

Glaze

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Garnish

  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, gochujang, honey or brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until smooth and sticky.
  2. Marinate the Drumsticks: Place chicken drumsticks in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish, pour half of the glaze over them, and massage it into the meat. Marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 1 hour for deeper flavor.
  3. Preheat and Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper, then arrange the drumsticks in a single layer. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
  4. Bake and Glaze: Bake drumsticks for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and generously brush with the reserved glaze. Return to oven and bake another 10-15 minutes or until fully cooked and glaze is caramelized (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove drumsticks from oven, let rest a few minutes, then sprinkle with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

  • Pat Dry First: Dry drumsticks before marinating to help glaze stick better.
  • Even Coating: Use a brush or hands to coat chicken evenly with glaze.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety and juiciness.
  • Rest Before Serving: Let drumsticks rest after baking to lock in juices.
  • Double the Glaze: Make extra glaze for drizzling or dipping.

Nutrition

Keywords: Korean glazed chicken, chicken drumsticks, spicy chicken, sticky chicken, easy dinner, weeknight recipe, Korean cuisine, gochujang chicken