The grilled chicken lollipop is a popular way to serve a standard chicken drumstick. As fancy as it looks, it’s relatively simple to prepare and grill especially when using a versatile Traeger wood pellet grill. It offers diners a way to eat drumsticks without as much mess. @kendrick. bbq Chicken Lollipops #kendrickbbq #lollipops #chicken #bbq #tiktokfood #traegergrills ♬ original sound – @kendrick_bbq.
Chicken lollipop has become an immensely popular appetizer around the world. But what exactly is a chicken lollipop and what makes it so addictive? This finger-licking snack has a unique shape and flavor profile that sets it apart from other fried chicken preparations.
This complete guide will tell you everything you need to know about chicken lollipops, including where they came from, how to make them, how they taste, how healthy they are, and why they are becoming more and more popular around the world.
A Brief History of Chicken Lollipop
The origins of chicken lollipop can be traced back to India, where innovative chefs came up with the idea of making chicken wings resemble lollipops. This involved cutting and pushing the chicken meat down the bone to create a distinctive lollipop shape.
The dish quickly became popular in India and then spread to places like China that are close by. Chinese chefs tried new flavors and ways of cooking to make their food more appealing to people in their own country. Chicken lollipop is now served in restaurants and on the street not only in Asia, but also in North America, Europe, and Australia.
How to Make Perfectly Shaped Chicken Lollipops
Picking chicken wings with a lot of meat is key to getting the perfect lollipop shape. The meatier middle part of the wing works best. Here are the main steps:
-
Remove the chicken wing tip and scrape the meat downwards to form a ball/cylinder around the exposed bone.
-
Marinate the shaped chicken wings in spices like chili powder, cumin, garlic, ginger etc.
-
Coat the marinated wings in flour or batter.
-
Deep fry the wings until crispy and golden brown.
-
Serve immediately with dips and garnishes.
Getting the right technique will ensure your chicken lollipops have a juicy, tender interior encased in a super crispy exterior.
The Signature Taste Profile of Chicken Lollipops
The tasty chicken meat inside the crunchy fried shell is what makes chicken lollipops stand out. It’s not just the meat that tastes great; the spices and dipping sauces are also very important.
Some popular seasoning options include:
- Chili powder
- Crushed peppercorns
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Turmeric
- Lemon juice
For dipping sauces, classic choices include:
- Sweet chili sauce
- Tangy tamarind sauce
- Spicy Indian green chutney
- Barbecue sauce
- Honey mustard
- Sesame dipping sauce
The ideal chicken lollipop delivers a perfect balance of crunchy, juicy, spicy and tangy in every bite!
Nutritional Value of Chicken Lollipops
Chicken lollipops pack quite a nutritious punch thanks to the high-protein chicken meat. A 3 oz serving provides around 28 grams of protein. Chicken also provides iron, zinc, vitamin B6 and other important nutrients.
However, the calorie content can be high since the wings are deep fried. A single lollipop can contain about 80-120 calories depending on size. The sodium content is also on the higher side due to added table salt and marinades.
So while an occasional serving of chicken lollipop can fit into a balanced diet, it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Baked or air-fried versions are healthier alternatives.
Global Popularity of Chicken Lollipops
While invented in India, chicken lollipops have caught on like wildfire across the globe thanks to their finger-licking flavors.
They are a staple appetizer in Chinese restaurants and take-out menus across North America. In Europe, chicken lollipops are popular pub snacks paired with drinks. Australian bars and cafes have also embraced this dish on their menus.
The fun pop culture naming has made chicken lollipops especially popular among kids and teens who love the unique stick shape. The flavors also appeal to their palates.
In India, chicken lollipops are a must-have during festive occasions and parties. The dish has also been given creative makeovers like mutton and fish lollipops to suit different tastes.
Innovative Ways Chefs Are Using Chicken Lollipops
Chefs never tire of finding new ways to reinvent classic dishes. Some interesting examples of chicken lollipop creativity from commercial kitchens include:
-
Using boneless chicken chunks on skewers as “faux” lollipops.
-
Experimenting with diverse marinades like jerk, harissa, peri peri, schezwan etc.
-
Breadcrumbing or batter frying lollipops instead of plain frying.
-
Serving chicken lollipops as sliders or wraps with veggies and sauces.
-
Adding cheese fillings inside the chicken before frying.
-
Offering chicken lollipop-inspired salads and rice bowls.
-
Cooking chicken lollipops on the grill or barbecue instead of frying.
-
Garnishing with herbs, pickled vegetables, or exotic spice blends.
Making Chicken Lollipops Kid-Friendly
Chicken lollipops check all the boxes for kid-friendly food. They have a fun, popsicle-like shape that instantly appeals to children. The flavors are also mild enough for young palates when spices are used judiciously.
Here are some tips to make chicken lollipops delightful for children:
-
Avoid overdoing the spices or heat.
-
Offer kid-favorite dips like honey mustard or sweet chili.
-
Cut lollipops into smaller pieces for toddlers.
-
Add kid-approved sides like fries or fruit slices.
-
Insert colorful cocktail skewers instead of bones for boneless versions.
-
Get creative with quirky names like “Clucky Pops” or “Hen Lollies”.
With their playful vibe and finger-food format, chicken lollipops are sure to be a hit at kids’ birthday parties!
Are Chicken Lollipops Healthy?
Chicken lollipops can be a nutritious choice when prepared with care. Chicken is a lean, high-protein meat that provides essential amino acids, iron, zinc, phosphorus and B vitamins. Using minimal oil for frying and baking instead of frying can reduce fat content.
However, the use of refined oil and flour coatings along with salt and spice blends can add sodium, refined carbs and saturated fat. These ingredients coupled with deep frying also increases calorie density.
Maintaining portion control and balancing out chicken lollipops with healthier sides can help keep their nutritional profile in check. Choosing baked, grilled or air-fried versions more often is recommended for better diet quality.
The Takeaway
Chicken lollipops have fast become a sizzling hot appetizer for their unique, fun pop culture-inspired name and irresistible flavors. When prepared with care, they can be a nutritious and kid-friendly addition to the menu. Moderation is key, since deep frying ups the calorie content. Whether you want to impress guests at a party or delight kids, chicken lollipops always hit the spot!
What Is a Chicken Lollipop?
A chicken lollipop is a chicken drumstick that has been Frenched; the meat is cut at the skinny end and pulled down to the other end to form a lollipop. Once you know how to cut them right, you can grill or bake them and serve them with any sauce you like.
Chicken “lollipops” have a nice look and the legs are easier to eat and can be less fussy for those who like to hold them in their hand. They are also incredibly versatile. Make them for lunch, dinner, or a hearty appetizer.
How to Prep Chicken Lollipop
What’s the difference between a chicken drumstick and a chicken lollipop? The key is to cut chicken legs the right way to make chicken lollipops. The technique is called “Frenching” and its a simple preparation that yields beautiful results.
If you have never done this before, it can take around 1 or 2 minutes to French every drumstick before seasoning and cooking. As you practice, you’ll get faster and be able to make a whole pan of these tasty chicken treats in no time.
All you need to create the look of a lollipop is proper tools and a little patience. Start with a sharp knife or kitchen shears. Shears designed for kitchen use are better than a standard scissor since they are sharpened for this type of use. Make sure they are clean, and dont use them for anything else until you wash them (to avoid contamination).
Create a clean, flat cutting surface for your work. Then follow these steps to create chicken lollipop.
- Either use shears or a knife to cut around the leg from the narrow end all the way around, about 2 to 3 inches below the knee. Make sure you reach the bone through the muscle and tendons.
- Once you have a clean cut, use your hands to move the meat up toward the thickest end.
- Any meat, tendons, or skin that is still stuck to the narrow end of the bone should be cut off or scraped off. This will leave the bottom third of the leg bone.
- You can use the shears to cut off any small bones that are next to the leg.
- Take off any tendons, skin, or gross parts that stick out from the top of the lollipop to make it look round and smooth.
CHICKEN LOLLIPOPS by GRILLIN WITH DAD
FAQ
What is the point of a lollipop lady?
… English), or school road patrol (New Zealand English), is a traffic management worker who is usually posted on busy roads to help people who are walking.
Is chicken lollipop junk food?
The most important macro-nutrient of them all is protein and sadly it comes in at a mere 4 grams per lollipop. This favorite snack for drinking will make you feel hungry and cause you to eat too much because it doesn’t have much protein. This makes it an unhealthy meal.
What to eat with chicken lollipops?
Serve them as an appetizer or a Side with some Chinese noodles or Fried rice. These spicy Chicken lollipops are perfect for any occasion – parties, family dinner or game day Snacking.