These chicken drumsticks are coated in a sweet and tangy glaze made with apple butter and molasses. They cook quickly under the broiler, developing a rich, caramelized crust while the meat stays juicy.
With just a few pantry staples and about 35 minutes, you can have a flavorful chicken dinner on the table. It is a simple recipe that delivers a lot of flavor with minimal effort.
Why is Apple Butter Chicken Drumsticks a Must-Try?
The simple glaze of apple butter and molasses creates a sticky, flavorful coating that caramelizes beautifully under the broiler.
A short marinating time allows the chicken to absorb the sweet and spiced flavors of the glaze before cooking.
Broiling is a fast cooking method that gives the chicken a delicious char while keeping the inside moist and tender.
Ingredients for Apple Butter Chicken Drumsticks
• Chicken Drumsticks: You can also use chicken thighs, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
• Apple Butter: Use a store-bought or homemade apple butter. Choose one without too much added sugar, as the molasses also adds sweetness.
• Molasses: Unsulphured molasses works well here. Do not use blackstrap molasses, as its flavor can be too strong and bitter.
• Ground Ginger: If you have fresh ginger, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger for the ground ginger.
Exact quantities are in the recipe card below.
How to Make Apple Butter Chicken Drumsticks
Step 1: Make the Glaze and Marinate
In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple butter, molasses, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken drumsticks and turn to coat them completely in the glaze. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare for Broiling
Position an oven rack about 6 inches from the broiler element and preheat the broiler. Line a broiler pan or a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the marinated drumsticks on the foil in a single layer, reserving leftover glaze.
Step 3: Broil the Chicken
Place the pan under the broiler and cook for 13 to 15 minutes, turning the drumsticks every 4 to 5 minutes. Brush any remaining glaze from the bowl onto the chicken each time you turn it. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through to 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is bubbly and browned in spots.
What to Serve with Apple Butter Chicken Drumsticks
Serve the drumsticks warm, with fresh apple slices on the side for a crisp contrast. They also pair well with roasted sweet potatoes or a simple green salad.
Expert Tips for Apple Butter Chicken Drumsticks
Food Safety: Chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
Keep a close eye on the chicken as it broils. The sugar in the glaze can go from caramelized to burnt very quickly under the broiler’s direct heat.
Lining your pan with aluminum foil is highly recommended, as the caramelized glaze can be difficult to clean.
For the best flavor, use a simple, unsweetened apple butter, as the molasses already provides plenty of sweetness.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Butter Chicken Drumsticks
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This recipe is not ideal for freezing as the glaze may become watery upon thawing. Reheat gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through to maintain the texture of the glaze.
Apple Butter Chicken Drumsticks Recipe FAQs
Can I bake these instead of broiling?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through. The glaze may not caramelize as much as it does under the broiler.
My glaze is burning. What should I do?
The sugars in the glaze can burn quickly. If you notice it browning too fast, move the oven rack further away from the broiler element. You can also loosely tent the chicken with foil.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Certainly. Chicken thighs or wings work well. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Apple Butter Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients
- 4 large chicken drumsticks about 1.5 lbs / 680g
- 1/4 cup apple butter 65g
- 1/4 cup molasses 85g
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Sliced apples for serving, optional
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple butter, molasses, ground ginger, salt, and pepper to create the glaze.
- Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You can marinate for up to 4 hours.
- Set an oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the broiler. Line a broiler pan or a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer on the prepared pan. Reserve any leftover glaze in the bowl.
- Broil for 13 to 15 minutes, turning the drumsticks every 4 to 5 minutes. Brush the chicken with the reserved glaze each time you turn it.
- The chicken is done when the glaze is browned and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through. Check for doneness by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of a drumstick, avoiding the bone. The temperature should read 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
