Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

When I first made Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks, it was one of those magical weeknights when everything just clicked. The kids were tired but happy, my husband had wrapped up work early, and the kitchen was filled with the mouthwatering aroma of garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. These drumsticks brought everyone to the table without me even needing to call them. There’s something about that sticky-sweet glaze and juicy meat that makes this dish irresistible. Whether you’re grilling outside or baking inside, Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks always feel like a little celebration of bold, comforting flavor.

Why You’ll Love This:

Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks bring together the bold, umami-rich flavors of Korean cuisine with the comfort of a family-style meal. They’re sticky, savory, and sweet with just the right hint of spice—perfect for busy weeknights or casual backyard dinners. These drumsticks are easy to prepare, kid-approved, and budget-friendly. You can bake, grill, or air-fry them depending on what you’ve got going. The best part? The marinade does most of the work. You just let the flavors soak in and then cook them to golden, caramelized perfection. Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are always a hit and never boring.

Ingredients for Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Here’s what you’ll need to make these flavor-packed drumsticks:

• 8 bone-in chicken drumsticks, skin on
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Substitutions & Variations for Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

No gochujang? No problem—swap in sriracha or chili garlic sauce for a similar kick. If you prefer boneless chicken thighs, they work beautifully with the same marinade, just reduce cook time slightly. For a sweeter profile, add a bit more honey. Want it spicier? Increase the gochujang or add crushed red pepper flakes. Gluten-free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can even make a vegetarian version using tofu or cauliflower—just adjust the cooking time and roast or grill until crispy. The marinade works well across proteins and veggies, making this a flexible and craveable dish every time.

Step-by-Step Instructions :

Making Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks is easy and rewarding. Follow these simple steps for sticky, caramelized perfection:

1. Prep the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, gochujang, garlic, and ginger until fully combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place drumsticks in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over, seal, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 400°F (or heat grill to medium-high). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
4. Arrange Drumsticks: Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Arrange on the wire rack. Reserve the leftover marinade.
5. Bake or Grill:
   • Oven: Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through and brushing with reserved marinade.
   • Grill: Grill for 25–30 minutes, turning and basting regularly until nicely charred and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
6. Broil or Char (Optional): For extra caramelization, broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes or sear briefly over high heat on the grill.
7. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Pro Tips for Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Letting the chicken marinate overnight will deepen the flavor. Use a wire rack when baking to allow air circulation, helping the skin crisp up. Don’t skip basting—it adds layers of flavor. If grilling, oil the grates well to prevent sticking. Always check internal temperature with a meat thermometer for juicy, safe results.

Storage & Reheating Tips for Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes or microwave in short bursts until warmed through. To retain crispness, reheating in the oven or air fryer works best. Freeze for up to 2 months if needed.

What to Serve With Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks pair perfectly with simple, fresh sides that balance their bold flavor. Steamed white or jasmine rice is a classic base to soak up the sticky sauce. For a crunchy contrast, try an easy cucumber salad tossed with rice vinegar and sesame seeds. Roasted or grilled vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini add color and nutrition. If you want a comforting twist, serve with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic fried rice. For a truly Korean-inspired meal, include kimchi or pickled radish on the side. Don’t forget a cold glass of iced green tea or sparkling water with lemon to refresh your palate.

FAQs About Korean BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	28 g
Fat	18 g
Carbohydrates	12 g
Sugar	8 g
Sodium	650 mg

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