Spicy, Sweet, and Sticky Chicken
This Spicy, Sweet, and Sticky Chicken is a flavorful dish that brings together heat, sweetness, and a glossy sticky glaze that clings beautifully to every bite. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course with steamed rice, this recipe delivers bold flavor using simple everyday ingredients. The marinade combines honey, soy sauce, chili, ginger, and garlic, creating a delicious sauce that caramelizes as the chicken cooks.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 12 chicken drumsticks
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
For the Marinade
- 6 cloves garlic, crushed
- 3 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red chili pepper, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons honey
- ½ cup soy sauce
For Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced spring onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed garlic, grated ginger, chopped chili pepper, honey, and soy sauce. Whisk until everything is well blended. - Marinate the Chicken
Season the chicken drumsticks lightly with salt and pepper. Place them in the bowl with the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours, or leave overnight for deeper flavor. - Brown the Chicken
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off excess liquid (reserve the marinade for later). Place the drumsticks in the skillet and cook for 10–15 minutes, turning frequently until the skin begins to brown and crisp. - Cook the Sauce
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Pour the reserved marinade into the same pan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Stir often until the marinade reduces into a thick, glossy sauce. - Coat the Chicken
Return the browned drumsticks to the pan and toss them in the thickened sauce. Continue cooking for 5–10 minutes, turning the drumsticks to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated and cooked through. - Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced spring onions before serving. This dish pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh green salad.