Elevate your appetizer game with these Mango Habanero Chicken Lollipops. Juicy chicken drumettes are transformed into lollipops, grilled to perfection, and glazed with a sweet and spicy mango habanero sauce. Perfect for gatherings or a flavorful dinner.
Ingredients
• 🍗 12 chicken drumettes
• 🧂 Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 🥄 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 🥄 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 🥄 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 🥄 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Mango Habanero Sauce:
• 🥭 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
• 🌶️ 2 habanero peppers, seeds removed and finely chopped
• 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 🧅 ¼ cup finely chopped onion
• 🥄 ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 🍯 ¼ cup honey
• 🥄 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 🧂 Salt, to taste
• 🥄 1 tablespoon olive oil
Equipment
• Grill or oven
• Saucepan
• Blender or food processor
• Basting brush
• Knife and cutting board
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Calories & Macros (per serving)
• Calories: 250
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 12g
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Lollipops
o Using a sharp knife, cut around the base of each drumette to loosen the meat from the bone. Push the meat down towards the thicker end to create a lollipop shape.
o In a bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and olive oil. Toss the chicken lollipops in the mixture to coat evenly.
o Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Make the Mango Habanero Sauce
o Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
o Add minced garlic and habanero peppers; cook for another minute.
o Stir in the diced mango, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes until the mango softens.
o Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Stir in lime juice.
3. Cook the Chicken Lollipops
Grilling Method:
o Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
o Grill the chicken lollipops for 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and slightly charred.
Oven Method:
o Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
o Place the chicken lollipops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
o Bake for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Glaze the Chicken
o During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken lollipops generously with the mango habanero sauce.
o After removing from heat, brush with an additional layer of sauce for extra flavor.
5. Serve
o Arrange the chicken lollipops on a serving platter.
o Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.
o Serve with extra mango habanero sauce on the side for dipping.
Cooking and Serving Tips
• Handling Habaneros: Wear gloves when handling habanero peppers to avoid skin irritation.
• Adjusting Heat: For a milder sauce, reduce the number of habanero peppers or remove the seeds.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with a side of coleslaw or a fresh green salad to balance the heat.
• Storage: Leftover sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Enjoy these flavorful and spicy Mango Habanero Chicken Lollipops at your next gathering!