Savory & Sweet Soy-Glazed Chicken Drumsticks: Perfect for Kids’ Meals or as a Snack!
The Ultimate Comfort Food! Delicious Soy-Glazed Chicken Drumsticks with Teriyaki Flavors
Introducing our irresistible soy-glazed chicken drumsticks, a guaranteed hit for family meals and a fantastic accompaniment to drinks. This dish features tender chicken drumsticks bathed in a sweet and savory teriyaki-style sauce that seeps deep into the meat, offering a rich and satisfying flavor. The succulent texture is sure to please everyone, from children to adults. It’s an elegant dish suitable for special occasions and effortless enough for a quick snack when hunger strikes.
Main Ingredients- 7 chicken drumsticks
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Additional Ingredients & Aromatics- A bit of green onion (scallion)
- 1 Korean chili pepper (optional, for added spiciness)
- A bit of green onion (scallion)
- 1 Korean chili pepper (optional, for added spiciness)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
If using frozen chicken drumsticks, place them in a pot of cold water and let them thaw for about 1 hour until completely defrosted. Once thawed, sprinkle the drumsticks evenly with 2 Tbsp of mirin and a pinch of herb salt, then let them marinate for 10 minutes. This step helps remove any gamey odor and enhances the flavor.
Step 2
Make 1-2 shallow cuts across the thickest part of the marinated drumsticks with a knife. This scoring allows the sauce to penetrate deeply, resulting in exceptionally moist and tender chicken. If you’re short on drumsticks, you can use thawed boneless, skinless chicken thighs and marinate them along with the drumsticks.
Step 3
Heat 2 Tbsp of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Place the marinated chicken drumsticks in the hot pan and sear them for 1-2 minutes per side, turning to brown all surfaces. This searing step locks in the juices, ensuring a wonderfully firm texture.
Step 4
While the chicken is searing, combine 4 Tbsp soy sauce, 2 Tbsp mirin, 2 Tbsp oligosaccharide, a pinch of black pepper, and 1/2 cup of water in a bowl. Whisk well to create the delicious glazing sauce. You can substitute corn syrup for oligosaccharide if preferred.
Step 5
Once the chicken drumsticks are golden brown on one side, push them to one side of the pan. Gradually pour about half of the prepared sauce over the chicken, dividing it into 2-3 additions. Flip the chicken pieces to coat them evenly, and add the remaining sauce as it reduces. This gradual addition prevents burning and ensures even coating.
Step 6
While the chicken is simmering in the sauce, thinly slice the green onions diagonally. If using, remove the seeds from the Korean chili pepper and mince it finely.
Step 7
Add the sliced green onions and minced chili pepper (if using) to the pan with the chicken and sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer slowly. Stir occasionally with a spatula to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is glossy.
Step 8
Turn off the heat, drizzle a little sesame oil for extra aroma, and garnish with freshly chopped green onions. Your delicious soy-glazed chicken drumsticks are ready! Serve hot over steamed rice or enjoy them with your favorite beer or soju.
