How To Make Restaurant-style Orange Chicken Drumsticks At Home – It’s Easier Than You Think!

Introduction:

Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the art of crafting delectable orange chicken drumsticks, a dish that effortlessly combines the sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that will ignite your senses.

Ingredients:

For the Drumsticks:

• 1 pound chicken drumsticks, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Drumsticks:

• Remove the drumsticks from the refrigerator and pat them dry with paper towels.
• In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
• Add the drumsticks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Sear the Drumsticks:

• Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Add the drumsticks and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
• Remove the drumsticks from the pan and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce:

• Wipe out the pan and add the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, orange zest, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.

Step 4: Combine the Drumsticks and Sauce:

• Return the drumsticks to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.
• Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has caramelized and the drumsticks are heated through.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the orange chicken drumsticks hot with rice, noodles, or vegetables.
• Garnish with additional orange zest or chopped green onions for a pop of freshness.

Variations:

• Spicy Orange Chicken Drumsticks: Add an extra pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a fiery kick.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken Drumsticks: Add an additional tablespoon of honey to the sauce and a teaspoon of minced garlic for a sweet and savory combination.
• Sesame Orange Chicken Drumsticks: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the drumsticks before serving for a nutty flavor.

Tips:

• For extra crispy drumsticks, double-coat them in the cornstarch mixture before searing.
• Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or orange juice to thin it out.
• Serve the drumsticks with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour sauce or honey mustard.

Endnote:

Embark on this culinary journey and savor the tantalizing flavors of orange chicken drumsticks. With its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and let the aroma of orange chicken fill your home with irresistible temptation.

What You Need to Know

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

A: Yes, you can, but the cooking time may vary. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring that the chicken is cooked through.

Q: What can I substitute for orange juice if I don’t have any?

A: You can use a mixture of pineapple juice and lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor.

Q: How do I store leftover orange chicken drumsticks?

A: Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.