Apple Butter Chicken Drumsticks
Sweet and savory chicken drumsticks glazed with apple butter and molasses, then broiled until tender and caramelized.
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
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.