Are you in the mood to shake up your dinner routine with something uniquely delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this mouthwatering Chicken Lollipops recipe that promises to bring a gourmet twist to your table. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, these chicken lollipops are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate. Let’s dive into how you can create these savory bites right in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken Legs: 6-8 pieces (defrosted if frozen, about 2 pounds)
- Smoked Paprika: 2 tsp
- Chili Powder: 2 tsp
- Herbs De Provence or Italian Seasoning: 2 tsp
- Garlic Powder: 2 tsp
- Onion Powder: 1 tsp
- Sea Salt: ½ tsp (or to taste)
- Freshly Ground Pepper: ¼ tsp (or to taste)
- Baking Powder or Cornstarch: 4 tsp (optional, not baking soda)
- Homemade BBQ Sauce: 1 cup (or your favorite store-bought sauce, plus more if needed)
Directions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet with nonstick foil or place a wire rack on it for an even crispier finish.
- Create the Lollipop Shape: This is where the fun begins. Cut around the base of each chicken leg to separate the meat from the bone, then push the meat down to shape it into a lollipop. Make sure the skin covers the meat to achieve a polished look.
- Prepare the Spice Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix the baking powder (or cornstarch) with smoked paprika, chili powder, herbs de Provence, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and ground pepper. This blend of spices will give your chicken lollipops a bold and flavorful coating.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken leg into the spice mixture, ensuring an even coat. If the spices don’t stick as well as you’d like, a quick spritz of cooking oil spray can do the trick.
- Protect the Bones: Wrap the cleaned bone part of each leg with aluminum foil. This not only prevents burning but also makes handling these lollipops a breeze.
- Bake to Perfection: Place your chicken lollipops on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes. Then, glaze each lollipop with BBQ sauce and return them to the oven for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish your chicken lollipops with parsley or spring onions and serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Nutritional Info:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Calories: 433 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4
Closing Thoughts:
This Chicken Lollipops recipe is not just about creating a meal; it’s about crafting an experience. With their enticing flavor and eye-catching appearance, these lollipops are sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Whether you’re aiming for a gluten-free dinner option, prepping for the grilling season, or simply in the mood for some gourmet chicken, this recipe has got you covered. Happy cooking!