Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Using a pair of scissors or a knife, carefully cut the skin and tendons around the base of each drumette. This step is crucial for shaping the chicken into a lollipop. As you do this, take your time to ensure you don’t cut too deep into the meat.
- Next, you’ll want to peel, scrape, and push the meat down towards the thick end to form a ball shape resembling a lollipop. This step is both fun and satisfying; you’ll be amazed at how much like a lollipop your chicken will look!
- Cut off the knuckle end with scissors or a knife, creating a clean shape. This also helps in holding the lollipop later when serving. Repeat the same process with the remaining chicken drumettes until all are prepared.
- In a large bowl, combine the marinade ingredients: hoisin sauce, ginger, garlic, mild chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, and water. Mix everything well until it’s evenly combined.
- Add the prepared chicken drumettes to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Ensure each piece is well covered with the flavorful mix. This step is vital for infusing the chicken with all those delicious flavors.
- For the best results, let the marinated chicken sit for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, yielding a tastier outcome.
- When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C). A well-preheated oven ensures even cooking and browning.
- While the oven is heating, arrange the marinated chicken drumettes on a wire rack set over a baking pan. This setup allows air circulation, resulting in crispy lollipops.
- Bake the chicken until it’s nicely browned, slightly charred, and completely cooked through, which should take about 35 minutes. Keep an eye on the color; you want that perfect golden brown!
- Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the Baked Chicken Lollipop with your favorite dipping sauce, or enjoy them as they are. They're delicious on their own!
Notes
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
