**Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Drumsticks**
**Introduction**
These honey garlic baked chicken drumsticks are tender, juicy, and coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze that’s both sweet and savory. The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates an irresistible sauce that caramelizes perfectly as it bakes. This easy recipe turns simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish ideal for weeknight dinners or parties.
**Ingredients**
* 10–12 chicken drumsticks, skin-on
* Salt and black pepper, to taste
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/3 cup soy sauce
* 1/3 cup honey
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for depth)
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions**
1. **Preheat oven** to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking dish with foil and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil.
2. **Season the drumsticks** with salt and black pepper, then place them in the prepared baking dish.
3. **Prepare the sauce:** In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, minced garlic, vinegar, Dijon mustard, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
4. **Coat the chicken:** Pour half of the sauce mixture over the drumsticks and toss to coat evenly. Reserve the remaining half for later.
5. **Bake uncovered** for 35–40 minutes, flipping the drumsticks halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning.
6. **Thicken the reserved sauce:** While the chicken bakes, pour the remaining sauce into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then whisk in the cornstarch-water mixture. Cook for 2–3 minutes until thickened, then remove from heat.
7. **Glaze the chicken:** After 40 minutes, brush the thickened honey garlic glaze generously over the drumsticks. Return to the oven for another 10–15 minutes until caramelized and sticky.
8. **Rest and serve:** Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley.
**Methods**
* **Marination method:** For deeper flavor, marinate the drumsticks in the sauce for 2–4 hours before baking.
* **Grilling option:** You can also grill the drumsticks on medium heat, basting with sauce until cooked through and glossy.
* **Air fryer option:** Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway and glazing in the last 5 minutes.
**History**
Honey garlic chicken has roots in both Asian and Western cuisines, combining the classic Chinese-style soy-garlic sauce with Western methods of roasting and caramelization. The sweet-salty balance has made it a global favorite in home kitchens and restaurants alike.
**Benefits**
* High in protein and nutrients from lean chicken.
* Garlic supports immunity and heart health.
* Honey provides natural antioxidants and sweetness without refined sugar.
* Baking avoids excess oil compared to frying.
**Nutrition (per serving, 2 drumsticks)**
Calories: 310
Protein: 28g
Fat: 13g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 740mg
**Formation**
The golden-brown glaze forms naturally as the honey and soy sauce caramelize in the oven, locking in the juices and giving the drumsticks a crispy exterior and tender interior.
**Conclusion**
Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Drumsticks are the perfect blend of sticky, sweet, and savory flavors. They’re easy to prepare, healthy, and loved by everyone from kids to adults. Serve them with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that always satisfies.
**For lovers**
Chicken lovers will adore this recipe’s bold flavors and juicy texture. It’s comfort food made simple — perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or when you just crave something finger-licking good.
