Lollipop chicken refers to drumettes or chicken wings that have been “frenched” by pushing the meat down toward one end of the bone, forming a lollipop-like shape. Gordon Ramsay elevates this classic appetizer with intense flavors and a beautifully crisp finish, often paired with a glaze or dipping sauce.
12 chicken drumettes or small drumsticks
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
¼ cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1 garlic clove, grated
1 teaspoon vinegar or lime juice
Fresh chopped parsley or sesame seeds
Lemon or lime wedges
Prep the lollipop chicken:
Use a sharp knife to cut around the bone at the narrow end of each drumette.
Push the meat down to the thick end, scraping the bone clean to form the lollipop shape. Trim off the small bone tip if needed.
Season the chicken: In a large bowl, toss the lollipops with garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, cayenne, and olive oil. Let marinate for 20–30 minutes for better flavor.
Choose a cooking method:
To bake: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Place chicken lollipops on a wire rack over a tray and bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and cooked through.
To fry: Heat oil in a deep fryer or skillet to 175°C (350°F) and fry lollipops in batches for 6–8 minutes until crispy and golden.
Make the glaze (if using): In a saucepan, mix honey, soy sauce, hot sauce, garlic, and vinegar. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Toss or brush the glaze: Coat the cooked lollipop chicken in the glaze or serve it on the side.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with herbs or sesame seeds and serve hot with dipping sauces.