Introduction
Indulging in a delicious plate of chicken wingettes and drumettes can elevate any gathering, game day, or weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the richness of maple syrup with the savory depth of soy sauce and ginger, creating a delectable and caramelized finish that’s hard to resist. With the added crunch of sesame seeds and the freshness of scallions, these wings are not only flavorful but also visually appealing. Get ready to enjoy a finger-licking treat that your family and friends will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 pounds chicken wingettes and drumettes
½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup pure maple syrup
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
1½ tablespoons ginger paste or 1 tablespoon freshly ground ginger
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
2 scallions or green onions, thinly sliced at an angle (for garnish)
Prep Time
1 hour (or overnight for best results)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Yield: Serves approximately 4-6
Enjoy these sweet and savory chicken wings as a perfect appetizer or main dish at your next meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Bags
Place two 2-gallon-sized resealable plastic bags together to prevent leaks.
Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and sprinkle lightly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Make the Marinade
In the inner plastic bag, combine ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, minced garlic, maple syrup, soy sauce, ginger paste, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Add Chicken to Marinade
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, seal the inner bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. Seal the outer bag around the inner bag and turn the chicken over a few times to ensure all pieces are covered with marinade.
Marinate the Chicken
Refrigerate the chicken for at least 1 hour or overnight.
Preheat the Oven
When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 425°F and line a medium-sized baking dish with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
Arrange the Chicken
Place the chicken in the pan, ensuring a little space between each piece. Pour the excess marinade over the chicken.
Initial Cooking
Cook for 20 minutes, then flip each piece over and brush with pan drippings.
Add Sesame Seeds
Sprinkle the chicken with toasted sesame seeds and cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and caramelized. The total cooking time should be 30-35 minutes.
Cool the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Garnish and Serve
Garnish with sliced green onions and serve.
Notes
Adjusting Seasoning
Taste the chicken after marinating and cooking; adjust the salt if needed.
Marination Time
For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if possible.
Cooking Method
Oven cooking is recommended for even grilling; alternatively, consider using a grill for a different flavor profile.
Storage
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour or overnight to enhance flavor and tenderness.
Drying Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning to help the skin crisp up during cooking.
Using Two Bags
Place two resealable plastic bags together to prevent leaks while marinating the chicken.
Oven Preheating
Always preheat the oven to 425°F to ensure even cooking and proper caramelization of the sauce.
Arranging Chicken in the Pan
Leave space between each chicken piece in the baking dish to allow for even cooking and airflow.
Turning Chicken
Flip the chicken halfway through cooking and brush with pan drippings for even flavor and moisture.
Garnishing
Top the cooked chicken with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor and presentation.
FAQ
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute other cuts like thighs or breasts, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 1 hour is recommended, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
What can I use instead of maple syrup?
You can substitute honey or agave syrup, but the flavor will differ slightly.
Is it necessary to use soy sauce?
Using low-sodium soy sauce adds saltiness and umami; you can use a soy sauce alternative if needed.
Can I cook the chicken on a grill instead?
Yes, grilling is an excellent alternative; just ensure to monitor the cooking time closely.
Conclusion
This delicious chicken wingette and drumette recipe offers a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, enhanced by the richness of maple syrup and the umami of soy sauce. Baking the chicken at a high temperature ensures a crispy exterior while allowing the marinade to create a delightful caramelization. Garnished with sesame seeds and scallions, this dish is not only visually appealing but also a treat for the taste buds. Whether served as an appetizer or main dish, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Swap chicken wingettes for thighs and use honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness.
Spicy Orange Glazed Wings
Substitute the soy sauce with orange juice and add some chili paste for a tangy and spicy twist.
Teriyaki Broccoli and Chicken Stir-fry
Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and stir-fry with broccoli, bell peppers, and a teriyaki sauce made from soy sauce and ginger.
Maple Soy Grilled Salmon
Use salmon fillets with the same marinade for a rich and flavorful grilled fish option.
Ginger Soy Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roast Brussels sprouts tossed in a mixture of ginger, soy sauce, and maple syrup for a delicious side dish.
