Unlock the secret recipe: how to make orange chicken drumsticks that will make your taste buds dance

Are you craving the tantalizing flavors of orange chicken but want to elevate it with the succulent texture of chicken drumsticks? This comprehensive guide will provide you with an easy-to-follow recipe that will transform your kitchen into a culinary paradise.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken drumsticks (about 6-8 pieces)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Drumsticks: Rinse the chicken drumsticks and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Season the Drumsticks: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, ginger, and cloves. Toss the drumsticks in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
3. Fry the Drumsticks: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the drumsticks and cook for 10-12 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Make the Orange Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
5. Combine the Drumsticks and Sauce: Pour the orange sauce over the fried drumsticks. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the drumsticks are fully coated.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped green onions and cilantro over the drumsticks. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Tips:

• For a crispy crust, double-coat the drumsticks in the flour mixture.
• If you don’t have orange juice, you can substitute it with pineapple juice or apple juice.
• Adjust the amount of brown sugar and honey to your desired level of sweetness.
• Serve with steamed rice, noodles, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Variations:

• Spicy Orange Chicken Drumsticks: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for a kick of heat.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken Drumsticks: Add 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 clove of minced garlic to the orange sauce for a sweet and savory combination.
• Sesame Orange Chicken Drumsticks: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds over the drumsticks before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Health Benefits:

• Chicken drumsticks are a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Orange juice is rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
• Soy sauce contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation.

“Oh, Wow!” Factor:

These orange chicken drumsticks will impress your family and friends with their mouthwatering flavor and crispy texture. The sweet and savory sauce will leave you craving for more.

Questions We Hear a Lot

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for drumsticks. The cooking time may vary slightly.

• What can I serve with orange chicken drumsticks?

Steamed rice, noodles, or a side salad are great accompaniments to orange chicken drumsticks.

• Can I make the orange sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the orange sauce up to 2 days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.