Ingredients:
12 chicken drumsticks
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Oil for frying
Maple Hot Sauce:
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken Lollipops:
Cut around the base of each drumstick to expose the bone, pushing the meat down to form a lollipop shape.
Marinate:
Place the chicken in a bowl with buttermilk and let it marinate for 1 hour (or overnight).
Coat the Chicken:
Mix flour, panko, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
Dredge each drumstick in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat.
Fry:
Heat oil to 350°F. Fry the chicken until golden and crispy (about 8–10 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
Make the Sauce:
In a saucepan, combine maple syrup, hot sauce, butter, vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Coat the Chicken:
Toss the fried chicken in the maple hot sauce until evenly coated.
Serve:
Arrange the lollipops on a plate and drizzle with extra sauce.
Enjoy these sweet, spicy, and crispy treats perfect for any gathering!
