🍗 Spicy Herb-Roasted Chicken Drumsticks

Servings: 3–4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
Cook time: 40–45 minutes

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🧺 Ingredients

Chicken

• 1 kg (2.2 lb) chicken drumsticks

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Spicy marinade / glaze

• 3 tablespoons chili paste or chili sauce

• 2 tablespoons ketchup or tomato paste

• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Garnish (optional)

• Fresh rosemary sprigs

• Extra chili flakes

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken

1. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.

2. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.

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2. Make the marinade

1. In a bowl, mix:

   • Chili paste

   • Ketchup (or tomato paste)

   • Honey

   • Soy sauce

   • Smoked paprika

   • Chili flakes

   • Dried rosemary

   • Dried thyme

   • Minced garlic

2. Stir until smooth and glossy.

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3. Marinate

1. Coat the chicken drumsticks evenly with the marinade.

2. Cover and marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor
   (can be baked immediately if short on time).

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4. Roast

1. Preheat oven to 200°C / 400°F.

2. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

3. Arrange drumsticks in a single layer.

4. Roast for 35–40 minutes, turning once halfway through.

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5. Caramelize

1. Increase oven temperature to 220°C / 425°F.

2. Roast for another 5–8 minutes until:

   • Skin is slightly charred

   • Sauce is thick, sticky, and glossy

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🍽️ Serving

• Serve hot, garnished with fresh rosemary.

• Pairs well with roasted potatoes, fries, salad, or rice.

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💡 Pro Tips

• For extra crispiness, place chicken on a wire rack over the tray.

• Air fryer option: 190°C / 375°F for 22–25 minutes, turning once.

• Add lemon juice at the end for a bright finish.