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golden baked chicken drumsticks

Golden Baked Chicken Drumsticks

These juicy chicken drumsticks feature a sticky-sweet glaze with a hint of chili heat. Tender on the inside with a beautifully caramelized exterior, they're an economical yet impressive dinner option that requires minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons vinegar white or apple cider
  • 1 kg chicken drumsticks about 8-12 pieces
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 3 tablespoons tomato sauce or ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Equipment

  • Baking tray
  • Mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Using a sharp knife, make three small slashes in each chicken drumstick to allow the marinade to penetrate deeper.
  3. In a large bowl, combine vegetable oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, chili sauce, salt, minced garlic, grated ginger, and lemon juice. Whisk until well combined.
  4. Add the slashed drumsticks to the marinade and thoroughly coat each piece, ensuring the marinade gets into the cuts.
  5. Arrange the coated drumsticks in a single layer on a baking tray, leaving space between each piece. Pour any remaining marinade over the drumsticks.
  6. Bake for 20-30 minutes until the drumsticks are golden-brown and slightly caramelized on the surface. Larger drumsticks may need closer to 30 minutes.

Notes

For best results, use chicken drumsticks with the skin on to achieve that gorgeous caramelized exterior. If your family prefers less heat, reduce the amount of chili sauce.
These drumsticks pair perfectly with coleslaw for a complete meal. Other excellent side options include roasted potatoes, green salad, corn on the cob, or mac and cheese.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and make excellent cold lunches. For meal prep, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for even more flavor.