Best Chicken Lollipops Recipe
This Best Chicken Lollipops Recipe offers a perfect combination of crispy, flavorful chicken legs coated with a smoky, spicy dry rub and finished with a tangy homemade BBQ sauce. Ideal as a party appetizer or a delicious main dish, these chicken lollipops feature a unique presentation and a crispy texture that will delight any chicken lover.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 6-8 Chicken Legs, defrosted if frozen (about 2 pounds)
- 2 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 2 tsp Chili Powder
- 2 tsp Herbs De Provence or Italian Seasoning
- 2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- ½ tsp Sea Salt, or to taste
- ¼ tsp Freshly Ground Pepper, or to taste
- 4 tsp Baking Powder or cornstarch (optional, not baking soda)
Sauce
- 1 cup Homemade BBQ Sauce or your favorite store-bought sauce, plus more if needed
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Legs: Using a sharp knife, turn the chicken legs into lollipops by cutting around the bone and pushing the meat to one end to create a handle. This makes them easier to hold and eat.
- Mix the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, chili powder, herbs de Provence or Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, freshly ground pepper, and baking powder or cornstarch. The baking powder helps create a crispy texture on the chicken skin.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels. Rub the dry seasoning mixture all over the chicken legs evenly to coat them well.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the seasoned chicken legs on a baking rack set over a baking sheet to allow air circulation and crisp skin. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crisp and golden.
- Prepare the BBQ Sauce: While the chicken cooks, prepare your homemade BBQ sauce or warm your favorite store-bought sauce. You can heat it gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Coat the Chicken: Once the chicken legs are done baking, brush them generously with the BBQ sauce on all sides. Return to the oven for 5 additional minutes to let the sauce set and caramelize slightly.
- Serve: Remove the chicken lollipops from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- You can substitute baking powder with cornstarch, but avoid using baking soda as it will give a bitter taste.
- Turning the chicken legs into lollipops not only looks appealing but also makes them easier to eat with your hands.
- For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the dry rub or BBQ sauce.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the baking rack to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Leftover chicken lollipops can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
Find it online: https://amandafood.com/best-chicken-lollipops-recipe/