Baked Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks

There’s something undeniably comforting about chicken drumsticks, especially when they’re bathed in a rich, sweet, and savory teriyaki sauce. Baked Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks are not only easy to prepare but also deliver a flavor punch that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Imagine crispy skin on the outside, juicy, tender meat on the inside, and a glossy glaze that makes each bite a mouthwatering experience. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, and it pairs beautifully with rice or steamed vegetables. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

– **Simple Ingredients**: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
– **Effortless Preparation**: The marinade does all the work! Just mix, marinate, and bake.
– **Family-Friendly**: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and savory flavors.
– **Versatile**: Serve these drumsticks with a variety of sides for a complete meal.

Ingredient List

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ½ cup water
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1-3 teaspoons Sriracha
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
• Sliced green onions (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

What’s in the Gear List

• Mixing bowl: For combining the marinade ingredients.
• Baking sheet: To bake the drumsticks evenly.
• Parchment paper: For easy clean-up and to prevent sticking.
• Meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection.

Baked Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks Made Stepwise

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, water, brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, and Sriracha to create a flavorful marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken drumsticks in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the drumsticks, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that crispy skin we all love.

Step 4: Bake the Drumsticks

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up. Arrange the marinated drumsticks on the sheet, shaking off any excess marinade. Reserve the leftover marinade for later use. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

While the chicken is baking, pour the reserved marinade into a saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then stir in the cornstarch mixed with water. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Glaze the Chicken

After 25-30 minutes, remove the drumsticks from the oven. Brush the thickened teriyaki sauce over each drumstick, then return them to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Serve the Baked Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch.

Year-Round Variations

• Add a splash of orange juice to the marinade for a citrus twist.
• Swap out the chicken drumsticks for thighs or wings.
• Incorporate vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli on the baking sheet for a one-pan meal.
• Try a different spicy sauce instead of Sriracha for varied heat levels.

Testing Timeline

• 1 hour marination for a quick meal.
• Overnight marination for deeper flavor.
• Cooking time: 35-45 minutes total in the oven.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

You can freeze the marinated drumsticks before baking. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with baking as directed.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my chicken skin isn’t crispy?

Ensure you bake the drumsticks at a high temperature and make sure they are not overcrowded on the baking sheet. If they are steamed instead of roasted, the skin will not crisp up.

Can I use boneless chicken instead?

Yes! Boneless chicken will cook faster, so reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

You can substitute rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, though the flavor profile may vary slightly.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

Feel free to adjust the amount of Sriracha according to your heat preference. You can also leave it out entirely for a milder dish.

Wrap-Up

Baked Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks are a delightful dish that brings together the sweetness of brown sugar, the umami of soy sauce, and the warmth of garlic and ginger. With minimal prep time and a quick cooking method, this recipe is perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re making this for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s sure to impress. The aromatic glaze will have your kitchen smelling heavenly, and the vibrant garnishes of green onions and sesame seeds add the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every succulent bite of your Baked Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks!