Baked Honey Glazed Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Looking for a delicious and easy chicken recipe? This Baked Honey Glazed Chicken Drumsticks recipe combines sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and fresh citrus for a perfectly caramelized and flavorful meal. Simple to prepare, this dish is great for family dinners or special occasions. The drumsticks are marinated in a sweet and tangy glaze, then baked to crispy perfection. The honey glaze makes every bite mouthwatering, and the final touch of sesame seeds and chives adds a beautiful garnish. Perfect for those looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful main course. Try this sticky honey chicken drumstick recipe today!

Ingredients:

• 5 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 3/4 cup honey
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 4 large garlic cloves, minced or finely grated
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, peeled and finely grated
• Sesame seeds and chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, orange juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Set aside 2/3 cup of the marinade and refrigerate.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the drumsticks in a large zip-top bag or food-safe bag. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, ensuring the drumsticks are fully coated. Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight, turning the bag occasionally to distribute the marinade evenly.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a rack in the center of the oven and line a rimmed baking sheet or large roasting pan with parchment paper.
4. Bake the Chicken: Arrange the marinated drumsticks skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Add enough marinade to the bottom of the pan to coat it, then discard any leftover marinade from the bag. Bake the chicken for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, flip the chicken to skin-side down and bake for another 20 minutes. For extra crispy skin, flip the drumsticks back to skin-side up and broil on high for 3-4 minutes or until the skin is caramelized and golden brown.
5. Prepare the Glaze: While the chicken is baking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 7 minutes, or until it thickens into a syrupy consistency.
6. Finish the Chicken: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and brush the thickened marinade over the drumsticks. Garnish with sesame seeds and chives, if desired. Serve hot.

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Tips:

• For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
• Use fresh ginger and garlic for a more aromatic and flavorful glaze.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Chicken Thighs or Breasts: You can use thighs or chicken breasts instead of drumsticks. Adjust cooking times accordingly; chicken breasts will cook faster than drumsticks.
• Soy Sauce Alternatives: If you prefer a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Orange Juice Alternatives: Fresh lime juice can replace the orange juice for a citrusy variation.

FAQs:

• Can I freeze the marinated chicken? Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
• How can I make the chicken extra crispy? Broil the drumsticks for 3-4 minutes at the end of cooking to crisp up the skin.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this honey glazed chicken with roasted vegetables or a side of mashed potatoes.
• A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this sweet and savory chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Baked Honey Glazed Chicken Drumsticks recipe is the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The sticky honey glaze combined with the savory soy sauce and fresh citrus makes each bite irresistible. With minimal prep and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or weeknight meals.