Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks

Every time I prepare Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks, it’s like hosting a mini celebration in my kitchen. The aroma of sweet honey mingled with the savory kick of garlic fills the air, and it instantly transports me to a cozy family gathering. Picture this: a bustling kitchen where laughter and delicious smells intertwine, and everyone is eagerly waiting for the feast to begin. That’s the magic of these drumsticks. With a few simple ingredients, you can create something that feels fancy enough for a dinner party yet comforting enough for a weeknight meal. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special occasion, these Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks are sure to impress.

What You’ll Need for Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks

When it comes to the ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks, simplicity is key. Each component plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The star, of course, is the juicy chicken, which soaks up the delicious sauce made from honey, soy sauce, and aromatic spices. Together, they create a dish that is both hearty and satisfying.

• 2.5 lbs chicken drumsticks – The perfect choice for juicy, tender meat that holds up to the flavorful sauce.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing its natural flavors.
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes – Adds a gentle kick to balance the sweetness of the honey.
• 1 tsp olive oil – Used to sauté the garlic and onions for a rich base flavor.
• 1/2 cup honey – The star ingredient that brings sweetness and a beautiful glaze to the dish.
• 2 Tbsp soy sauce – Adds depth and umami, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 1/4 cup chicken broth – Provides moisture and helps create a luscious sauce.
• 1 small onion, diced – Gives a savory base flavor when sautéed with the garlic.
• 5 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the dish with a robust, aromatic flavor.
• 1 tsp cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce for a glossy finish.

How to Prepare Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks

Getting these Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks ready is an enjoyable and straightforward process. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create this delicious meal. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll have a mouth-watering dish ready to serve.

1. Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature ensures that the chicken gets nicely browned and crispy. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top if you have one.
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, stir in the minced garlic and diced onion, cooking for a few minutes. You’ll want to stir constantly to avoid burning and to let the aromatic flavors bloom.
3. Next, pour in the honey and soy sauce and stir well. This is the magic moment when the sauce starts to come together. Then, mix the chicken broth with the cornstarch and add it to the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing it to thicken for about five minutes. Once thickened, remove it from the heat.
4. While the sauce is cooling a bit, take your drumsticks and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy skin. Season them liberally with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to enhance their flavor.
5. Place the seasoned chicken on the wire rack, ensuring they are spaced out for even cooking. Now, it’s time to bake! Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes.
6. After 10 minutes, take the drumsticks out and flip them over. Bake for another 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.
7. Once flipped, it’s time to brush on some of that beautiful sauce. After another 5 minutes, remove the tray again and coat the top side with more sauce. Flip one last time and coat the other side as well.
8. Finally, continue baking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 180 to 190 degrees Fahrenheit, and the juices run clear. This ensures your chicken is cooked through and juicy.
9. When done, remove from the oven and let the drumsticks rest for a moment. Serve them topped with any remaining sauce, and enjoy them hot!

How to Switch It Up

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to put a twist on these Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks. Here are some fun ideas to consider:

• Storage: To store leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze these drumsticks before cooking. Just season them and put them in a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Pairing: Serve these with a side of steamed veggies for a complete meal or alongside rice to soak up that delicious sauce.
• Spice it Up: Feel free to add more crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat or even some fresh ginger to the sauce for a zingy twist.
• Vegetable Medley: Roast some vegetables on the same tray as the drumsticks for added nutrition and flavor.
• Different Proteins: This recipe can also work with other cuts like thighs or even fish for a lighter option.

What to Pair With Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks

When serving Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks, you can really get creative with your pairings. Here are some delightful options that complement the dish beautifully:

• Steamed Rice: A classic pairing, the fluffy rice absorbs the sweet and savory sauce perfectly.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender adds a lovely color and extra nutrition to your plate.
• Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up any extra sauce, garlic bread is a tasty side that resonates well with the flavors.
• Asian Salad: A light salad with a sesame dressing can balance the richness of the drumsticks.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can serve as a comforting base for the chicken and sauce.
• Seasonal Fruits: Adding a fruit salad or a bowl of fresh fruits can lighten the meal and add a sweet finish.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that make for a perfect meal any night of the week. I encourage you to try this simple yet delicious recipe that is sure to become a family favorite in your home. With each bite, you’ll experience the love and care that goes into making this dish, creating memories around the dinner table.

Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks

The ultimate comfort food, Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks are juicy, sweet, and savory. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe combines simple ingredients for a mouth-watering dish. You won't want to miss out on this easy-to-make crowd-pleaser!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2.5 lbs chicken drumsticks
• Salt and pepper
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/2 c honey
• 2 Tbsp soy sauce
• 1/4 c chicken broth
• 1 small onion, diced
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp cornstarch

Equipment

• Cutting Board
• Large Pot
• Oven
• Frying pan
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top if available.
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, stir in minced garlic and diced onion, cooking for a few minutes while stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the honey and soy sauce, then stir well. Mix the chicken broth with the cornstarch and add to the pan. Bring to a boil and cook until thickened, about five minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.
5. Place the seasoned chicken on the wire rack and bake for 10 minutes.
6. After 10 minutes, flip the drumsticks and bake for another 10 minutes.
7. Brush some sauce on the chicken after another 5 minutes. Flip and coat the other side, then continue baking until the internal temperature reaches 180-190 degrees Fahrenheit.
8. Remove from the oven and let rest before serving. Enjoy with extra sauce!

Notes

• Tip 1: To store leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze these drumsticks before cooking. Just season them and put them in a freezer bag.
• Tip 3: Serve these with a side of steamed veggies for a complete meal or alongside rice to soak up that delicious sauce.
• Tip 4: Feel free to add more crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat or even some fresh ginger to the sauce for a zingy twist.
• Tip 5: Roasting some vegetables on the same tray as the drumsticks adds flavor and nutrition.

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Meet Hailey Anderson

My passion is creating food that nourishes your body without sacrificing flavor. I’m our main recipe developer for vibrant salads, smoothies, and feel-good breakfasts. When I’m not blending or chopping, I’m right alongside Brooke and Jenna, helping to cook and test our new dinner and dessert recipes. I’m a firm believer in balance!