Craving that irresistible, spicy kick of Pizza Hut's New Orleans-style barbecue? Forget the delivery fees and the wait! This recipe brings the delicious, tangy flavor of those famous drummets right to your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade version of a fast-food favorite, transformed into a delicious and healthy-ish meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken drumettes
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- For the Sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken drumettes dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely when frying. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Add the chicken drumettes and toss to coat evenly.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat. Carefully place the coated chicken drumettes in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
While the chicken is frying, prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine all the sauce ingredients. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Add the fried chicken drumettes to the saucepan with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the chicken evenly. Serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Use a thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is crucial to ensure the chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder flavor, use less; for extra heat, add more.
- Make it ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Add some sweetness: For a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar to 1/3 cup.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Use different cuts: This recipe can also be adapted for chicken wings or tenders.
- Bake it: For a healthier option, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, and then toss with the sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for a more precise analysis.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
Enjoy your delicious homemade Pizza Hut New Orleans-inspired drummets! This easy recipe is a fantastic alternative to takeout, offering a satisfying and flavorful meal without the guilt of excess sodium or unhealthy fats often found in restaurant food. This recipe is perfect for casual dinners and easy entertaining. Let us know in the comments how you liked it!