Satisfy your orange chicken fix with our easy-to-make drumstick recipe

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering orange chicken recipe drumstick. These crispy, golden-brown drumsticks are coated in a delectable orange sauce that’s both tangy and sweet. With each bite, you’ll experience a burst of citrusy flavor that will leave you craving more. So, gather your ingredients and let’s embark on a culinary adventure that will elevate your weeknight dinners or weekend feasts.

Ingredients

For the Drumsticks:

• 1 pound chicken drumsticks
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions

Prepare the Drumsticks:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, combine the cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
3. Season the chicken drumsticks with the cornstarch mixture.

Make the Orange Sauce:

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, water, orange zest, garlic, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Coat the Drumsticks:

1. Dip each drumstick into the orange sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
2. Place the coated drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Drumsticks:

1. Bake the drumsticks for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and golden brown.
2. Flip the drumsticks halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.

Tips

• For extra crispy drumsticks, broil them for the last 5 minutes of baking.
• Serve the orange chicken drumsticks with your favorite sides, such as rice, noodles, or vegetables.
• Add a sprinkle of green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.

Storage

• Store leftover orange chicken drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the drumsticks in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Variations

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or Sriracha to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Add an extra tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of minced garlic to the orange sauce for a sweeter and more garlicky flavor.
• Orange Chicken Stir-Fry: Instead of baking the drumsticks, cut them into bite-sized pieces and stir-fry them in a wok with the orange sauce.

Health Benefits

• Chicken drumsticks are a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Oranges are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps protect against cell damage and boosts the immune system.
• The orange sauce contains honey, which has antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Conclusion: A Flavorful Culinary Masterpiece

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of this orange chicken recipe drumstick. With its crispy exterior and tangy-sweet orange sauce, this dish will become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or hosting a special occasion, these drumsticks are sure to impress.

FAQ

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of drumsticks?

A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Adjust the baking time to 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

Q: What can I substitute for orange juice in the sauce?

A: You can substitute orange juice with pineapple juice or grapefruit juice for a slightly different flavor profile.

Q: How do I know if the drumsticks are cooked through?

A: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a drumstick. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for doneness.