Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks
If you’re looking for an easy, flavor-packed dinner the whole family will love, these Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks are exactly what you need. They’re juicy, tender, and coated in a sticky, sweet-and-savory glaze that’s absolutely irresistible.
This recipe is simple enough for busy weeknights but delicious enough to serve for gatherings or game day.
If you enjoy easy comfort food recipes like this, you’ll definitely want to explore more of our hearty main meals. Don’t forget to pair your main course with one of our tasty side dishes and a sweet treat for dessert.
Table of contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s a lot to love about these honey garlic chicken drumsticks!
- Super easy to prepare with minimal prep
- Packed with sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavor
- Oven-baked for convenience
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or parties
- Family-friendly and budget-friendly
- Freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prep
Key Ingredients
We’ve made this list to help you save time on your next trip to the grocery store. You can find the full amounts needed in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
- Chicken Drumsticks: They’re the main protein and provide juicy, flavorful meat as the base of the dish.
- Soy Sauce: Delivers the salty, umami backbone that seasons the chicken and defines the savory flavor.
- Honey: Adds sweetness and helps create a sticky, caramelized glaze on the chicken.
- Garlic: Brings bold, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall savory profile.
- Sesame Oil: Adds a rich, nutty depth, giving the dish an Asian-inspired flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Provide a touch of heat to balance the sweetness and savory elements.
Variations
- Add a Splash of Citrus: Add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Change Up the Chicken: Use chicken thighs or wings. Shrimp also works.
- Make It Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Extra Sweet and Caramelized: Add a little brown sugar for more sweetness and extra caramelization.
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks
This is a quick overview of the steps needed to make this recipe. You can find the full instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Mix the sauce ingredients in a large bowl. Then, add the drumsticks to a large Ziploc bag and pour in the sauce. Shake well.
- Place the chicken and sauce in a prepared 9×13 baking dish and bake until cooked through and caramelized. Enjoy!
Expert Tips
- Turn the Drumsticks: Turn the drumsticks halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Use a Double-Lock Baggie: Use a resealable bag with two locking strips at the top to prevent leakage.
- Let the Chicken Rest: Let the chicken rest a few minutes before serving.
- Line the Dish: Line your baking dish with foil for the easiest cleanup.
Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks FAQs
Do you have questions about this recipe? Here are the answers to the most commonly asked questions.
Yes! Marinating the drumsticks for a few hours or overnight will further enhance the flavor.
The internal temperature should reach 165°F, and the drumsticks should be nicely browned with a sticky glaze.
Absolutely. Cook at 375°F for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
It has a mild kick from the red pepper flakes, but you can reduce or omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.
You can prepare and marinate the chicken in advance, then bake it when ready to serve.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Yes, let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2–3 months. Thaw before reheating.
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📖Recipe
Want to make this recipe? Print the recipe card below, or pin this recipe, so you can find it later.
Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks
Equipment
- large mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Large zip-top bag
- 9×13-inch baking dish
Ingredients
- 10 chicken leg drumsticks
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, sesame oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, minced garlic, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes.
- Place the chicken drumsticks in a large zip-top bag. Pour the sauce over the chicken, seal the bag, and toss well to coat the drumsticks evenly.
- Arrange the chicken drumsticks in a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour any remaining sauce over the top.
- Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the tops are browned and glazed.
- Serve warm with mashed potatoes or rice, and garnish with sliced scallions if desired.
Disclaimer
Any nutritional data I provide is an approximation and actual dietary information can vary based on ingredients and proportion sizes.
