Name: Southern Sticky Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1/3 cup honey (adds sweetness and helps create that sticky texture); 1/3 cup ketchup (provides a tangy base); 2 tablespoons soy sauce (introduces umami); 1 tablespoon hot sauce (gives a mild kick); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds complexity); 1 teaspoon paprika (contributes smokiness and color); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 8 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken legs or thighs (provides juicy, flavorful meat); Vegetable oil (used for searing)

If you’re craving a dish that embodies the heart and soul of Southern cooking, look no further than this Southern Sticky Chicken. With its sweet and tangy glaze, it’s a perfect blend of flavors that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. This dish is not just about taste; it’s about the experience of gathering around the table, sharing stories, and indulging in some seriously delicious food. Get ready to dive into a recipe that is as simple as it is scrumptious!

Top Reasons to Make Southern Sticky Chicken

– **Irresistible Flavor**: This dish features a delightful combination of honey, ketchup, and spices that create a sticky glaze that clings to the chicken, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
– **Easy to Prepare**: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a mouthwatering meal on the table in no time.
– **Versatile Cooking Methods**: Whether you prefer baking, grilling, or slow-cooking, this recipe is adaptable to your cooking style.
– **Perfect for Gatherings**: Southern Sticky Chicken is a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners, barbecues, or potlucks.
– **Great Leftovers**: This chicken tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.

What We’re Using

1/3 cup honey – Adds sweetness and helps create that sticky texture.
1/3 cup ketchup – Provides a tangy base that balances the sweetness of the honey.
2 tablespoons soy sauce – Introduces umami and depth of flavor.
1 tablespoon hot sauce – Gives a mild kick that enhances the overall taste.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds complexity with its unique flavor profile.
1 teaspoon paprika – Contributes a subtle smokiness and beautiful color.
2 garlic cloves, minced – Adds aromatic goodness that elevates the dish.
8 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs or thighs – Provides juicy, flavorful meat that stands up to the sticky glaze.
Vegetable oil – Used for searing the chicken to achieve a crispy skin.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Large mixing bowl – For combining the marinade ingredients.
Whisk – To blend the marinade until smooth.
Skillet or baking dish – For cooking the chicken.
Meat thermometer – To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked.
Serving platter – For an appealing presentation.

Cook Southern Sticky Chicken Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the honey, ketchup, soy sauce, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and minced garlic. Whisk until the ingredients are fully blended and the mixture is smooth.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken legs or thighs to the bowl, making sure each piece is well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

If you’re baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature allows the chicken to cook through while achieving that coveted sticky glaze.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of vegetable oil. Once hot, carefully place the marinated chicken pieces in the skillet, skin-side down. Sear for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden brown, then flip and sear the other side for another 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Glaze and Serve

For an extra sticky finish, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the Southern Sticky Chicken with your favorite sides!

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

Substitute maple syrup for honey for a different kind of sweetness.
Use barbecue sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky flavor.
Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Incorporate citrus juice like lime or lemon for a zesty kick.

Chef’s Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken overnight; the flavors will penetrate deeper.
Feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your heat preference.
Using bone-in chicken ensures juiciness, but boneless pieces can work as well.
This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Leftover Southern Sticky Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven until heated through, ensuring the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs or legs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts; however, they may not retain the same level of juiciness. Consider marinating them for a shorter time to avoid drying out.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?

Searing helps to lock in moisture and provides a beautiful golden crust. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but the outcome may differ in texture.

How spicy is this Southern Sticky Chicken?

The heat level can be adjusted by modifying the amount of hot sauce used. For a milder version, reduce the hot sauce or omit it entirely.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Just combine the marinade and chicken in the slow cooker, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

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Wrap-Up

Now that you know how to make Southern Sticky Chicken, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish not only highlights the best of Southern cuisine but also creates lasting memories around the dinner table. The combination of sweet and savory flavors will satisfy your taste buds and have everyone asking for the recipe. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the deliciousness, and enjoy this sticky, flavorful delight that is sure to become a favorite in your home!