# Ingredients:
→ Chicken
01 - 8 chicken drumsticks (approximately 1 kg or 2.2 lbs)
02 - 1 teaspoon salt
03 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
→ Glaze
04 - 1/2 cup cherry preserves
05 - 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
06 - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
07 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce (gluten-free if required)
08 - 2 tablespoons honey
09 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely grated
11 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
→ Garnish (Optional)
12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
13 - 1/4 cup dried cherries, chopped
# Instructions:
01 - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
02 - Pat the chicken drumsticks dry using paper towels. Season them evenly with salt and black pepper.
03 - In a small saucepan, combine the cherry preserves, cranberry sauce, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and smoked paprika. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 3–4 minutes until the mixture slightly thickens. Remove from heat.
04 - Arrange the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet. Brush generously with half of the prepared glaze. Bake for 20 minutes.
05 - Flip the drumsticks over. Brush with additional glaze and bake for another 15–20 minutes. Continue baking until the chicken is thoroughly cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the skin is beautifully caramelized.
06 - Remove the chicken from the oven. Brush with any remaining glaze. Allow the drumsticks to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
07 - Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and chopped dried cherries, if desired.