Thai drumsticks

Thai drumsticks

These Thai drumsticks are packed with vibrant flavors from sweet chilli sauce, fresh orange zest, and fragrant Thai red curry paste. Roasted to juicy perfection, they make a delightful main dish for any meal.

Chicken

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

40 min

Servings

4

This recipe for Thai drumsticks brings together the sweet and tangy notes of sweet chilli sauce and fresh orange zest, harmonized with the warming spices of Thai red curry paste. The marinade infuses the chicken with a burst of flavor, creating a dish that's both exotic and comforting. Traditionally, Thai cuisine balances sweet, sour, spicy, and savory elements, and this recipe captures that essence beautifully. Perfect for a casual dinner or a weekend gathering, these drumsticks pair wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the heat and sweetness. The simplicity of roasting allows the marinade to caramelize slightly, enhancing the taste and keeping the chicken tender and juicy. Originating from Thai street food culture, dishes like these are celebrated for their bold flavors and ease of preparation. Enjoy these drumsticks as a flavorful centerpiece to your meal or serve them as finger food for a fun, relaxed dining experience.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoon sweet chilli sauce
  • Zest of 1 Orange
  • 2 tblsp Orange
  • 1 clove peeled crushed Garlic
  • 1 tblsp Thai Red Curry Paste
  • 8 Chicken drumsticks

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/gas mark 6, and line a baking tray with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet chilli sauce, vibrant orange zest, and freshly squeezed orange juice, then add the crushed garlic, fragrant Thai red curry paste, and a pinch (¼ tsp) of salt. Stir well to create a vibrant, aromatic marinade. Place the chicken drumsticks into the marinade and toss them thoroughly, ensuring each piece is generously coated with the zesty, spicy mixture. Allow them to soak up the flavors for a few minutes if you have time. Arrange the drumsticks spaced apart on the prepared foil-lined tray. Use any remaining marinade in the bowl to brush over the top for an extra layer of flavor. Roast in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, turning once halfway through if desired, until the chicken is cooked through and tender, with a beautifully caramelized exterior. Once cooked, you can wrap the drumsticks in foil to keep them warm or pack them into a food container if serving later. For best results, serve hot with sides like fragrant jasmine rice or a crisp Asian slaw to complement the rich flavors of the chicken. Tip: To check for doneness, the juices should run clear when the thickest part of the drumstick is pierced. Marinating longer than 15 minutes can deepen the flavor even more.

Quick Info

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
40 min
Total Time
55 min
Servings
4