Vietnamese Chicken Drumsticks with Danang-Style Soy Sauce and Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges
Vietnamese Chicken Drumsticks with Tương Xứ Đà Nẵng Danang-Style Soy Sauce and Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges is a delectable dish that brings together the richness of Vietnamese flavors and the satisfying crunch of sweet potatoes. With easy-to-follow steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe will elevate your weeknight dinners or impress your guests at gatherings. You will learn how to marinate chicken to perfection, create a sticky glaze, and bake sweet potato wedges to crispy perfection.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the savory and slightly sweet notes of Tương Xứ Đà Nẵng, a unique variant of soy sauce, with perfectly grilled chicken drumsticks. The marinade penetrates the meat, offering layers of flavor that create a memorable dining experience. Paired with crispy sweet potato wedges, it’s a well-rounded meal that offers satisfaction and nutrition. The use of fresh ingredients and simple steps makes this dish something you can whip up any day of the week.
Pro Tips for Making Vietnamese Chicken Drumsticks with Tương Xứ Đà Nẵng Soy Sauce and Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges
1. **Marinate Longer**: If time permits, marinating the chicken drumsticks overnight allows the flavors to fully penetrate, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful dish.
2. **Use a Meat Thermometer**: To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. **Crispier Sweet Potatoes**: For an extra crispy finish on your sweet potato wedges, toss them in cornstarch. It helps create a crispy exterior when baked.
4. **Adjust Seasoning**: If you prefer a spicier touch, feel free to add more chili powder or even red pepper flakes to the sweet potato seasoning mix.
5. **Serve Fresh**: The dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to regain their crispy texture.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Drumsticks:
- 6-8 chicken drumsticks skin-on for crispiness
- 3 tbsp Tương Xứ Đà Nẵng Danang-style soy sauce (or substitute with 2 tbsp regular soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey, and 1 tsp five-spice powder)
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or palm sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 shallot, minced
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, cut into wedges
- 2 tbsp cornstarch for extra crispiness
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
For Garnish & Serving:
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sliced scallions
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine Tương Xứ Đà Nẵng soy sauce, fish sauce, honey, minced garlic, minced shallot, black pepper, and vegetable oil. Mix well to create a marinade. Add the chicken drumsticks, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato wedges with cornstarch, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and vegetable oil. Make sure the wedges are well coated in the mixture. Spread the wedges out on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring that they aren’t overlapping to aid in crisping. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Prepare your grill or oven broiler by preheating it to medium-high heat. Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Grill the drumsticks for about 6-8 minutes on each side, basting occasionally with the leftover marinade. Cook until the chicken is well charred and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For added stickiness, brush with extra Danang sauce in the last 2 minutes of grilling.
Step 4: Serve
Once the chicken and sweet potatoes are cooked, arrange them beautifully on a wooden board or banana leaf. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds, sliced scallions, and fresh cilantro. Serve with extra Danang sauce on the side for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used; however, cooking times will vary. Ensure that the internal temperature still reaches 165°F (74°C).
What can I substitute for Tương Xứ Đà Nẵng soy sauce?
You can substitute it with a combination of regular soy sauce, honey, and five-spice powder for a similar flavor profile.
Are there any vegan substitutes for this recipe?
For a vegan version, use firm tofu in place of chicken, ensuring it’s well-pressed and marinated similarly. Opt for a vegan soy sauce as well.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Absolutely! The marinade can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to refrigerate the chicken once coated.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Conclusion
This Vietnamese Chicken Drumsticks with Tương Xứ Đà Nẵng Danang-Style Soy Sauce and Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges recipe encapsulates the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. The combination of tender, juicy chicken and crunchy sweet potatoes makes for a satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and sure to impress. Follow the steps closely, and you’ll create a feast that brightens up your dinner table!
