MAPLE AND CRANBERRY CHICKEN DRUMSTICKS
Serves: 4
1 tsp (5 mL) dried sage (may substitute 1 to 2 tbsp (15-30 mL) finely chopped fresh sage) Freshly ground black pepper Kosher salt
2 tbsp (30 mL) extra-virgin olive oil
2 tbsp (30 mL) good-quality maple syrup
4 tbsp (60 mL) cranberry sauce or relish
2 pounds (approx. 1 kg) chicken drumsticks ( lower leg only)
1. Make ahead: The chicken needs to marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.
2. Use a sharp chef ’s knife or cleaver to cut off the end (ankle) of each drumstick. Discard them. (This step is optional.)
3. Place the drumsticks in a gallon-size zip-top bag, along with the cranberry sauce or relish, maple syrup, oil, a four-fingered pinch each of the salt and pepper, and the sage. Seal and massage through the bag to coat evenly. Lay the bag in a glass or ceramic baking dish that’s large enough to hold the drumsticks in a single layer. Let sit for 1 hour at room temperature, turning the bag over a few times, or refrigerate up to overnight.
4. Preheat the oven to 375 F (190 C). Open and pour the contents of the bag into the baking dish, arranging the drumsticks in a single layer. Turn to coat with all the sauce you can extract from the bag. Roast (top rack) for about 45 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, using tongs to turn the drumsticks about halfway through the oven time.
5. Serve warm.