Appetizers & Starters > Meat-Based Starters > Poultry Appetizers > Chicken Lollipops

Honey Garlic Chicken Lollipops

Honey Garlic Chicken Lollipops offer a sweet and savory appetizer option, ideal for parties or a fun family snack. Chicken drumettes are transformed into playful lollipops, coated in a delectable honey garlic glaze, and then baked or grilled to perfection. The result is a crowd-pleasing dish with a sticky, caramelized finish.

Follow this simple recipe to create these delightful chicken lollipops!

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30-40 minutes
Servings
6
Ingredients
  • 12 pieces Chicken drumettes
  • 1/4 cup Honey
  • 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
  • 4 cloves Garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Ginger
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon Rice vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes
  • 2 teaspoons Sesame seeds
  • 2 Green onions

Prepare the Chicken Lollipops

Using a sharp knife, cut around the bone of each drumette, pushing the meat down to create a 'lollipop' shape. Clean the bone with paper towels to remove any small pieces of meat for a cleaner look.

Make the Honey Garlic Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). This glaze provides a perfect balance of sweetness, saltiness, and savory flavor.

Coat the Chicken

Place the prepared chicken lollipops in a resealable bag or a bowl. Pour the honey garlic glaze over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to a few hours in the refrigerator. The longer it sits the better they will be.

Bake the Chicken Lollipops

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the glazed chicken lollipops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Turn the lollipops halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. For a stickier and more caramelized finish, baste the chicken with extra glaze during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Grill the Chicken Lollipops (Optional)

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the glazed chicken lollipops for 25-30 minutes, turning frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. Baste with extra glaze during the last few minutes of grilling for a glossy finish. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken lollipops are cooked, remove them from the oven or grill. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately as a delicious and visually appealing appetizer. These are great warm or at room temperature.

FAQ

  • Can I use pre-minced garlic and ginger?

    While you can use pre-minced garlic and ginger for convenience, fresh garlic and ginger provide a more robust and flavorful result. If using pre-minced, be sure to check the expiration date and use the correct amount.
  • Can I add other spices or herbs to the glaze?

    Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other spices and herbs to customize the flavor of the glaze. Some good options include garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, or dried thyme.
  • How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

    To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that the soy sauce you use is gluten-free. Tamari is a good gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.