Honey Garlic Baked Drumsticks

Name: Honey Garlic Baked Drumsticks
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 chicken drumsticks; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup honey; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

These Honey Garlic Baked Drumsticks are a delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-02T21:58:30.439Z

Honey garlic baked drumsticks are a family favorite that combines the rich flavors of honey and garlic with the crispy goodness of baked chicken. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also delivers a satisfying and delicious meal that everyone will love.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Sweet and sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully
Crispy skin with tender, juicy meat
Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

Honey Garlic Baked Drumsticks are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, making them suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or a game day party, these drumsticks are sure to impress. Their sweet and savory flavor profile appeals to both adults and kids alike, ensuring that everyone at the table will be satisfied.

Not only are they delicious, but they’re also incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside a fresh salad, some roasted vegetables, or a hearty grain like rice or quinoa to create a well-rounded meal. You can also add them to a platter of appetizers for a fun and interactive dining experience.

Cooking Tips for the Best Results

To achieve the perfect Honey Garlic Baked Drumsticks, start by ensuring your chicken is at room temperature before cooking. This helps the meat cook evenly, resulting in tender and juicy chicken. Additionally, make sure to line your baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

For added flavor, consider marinating the drumsticks in the honey garlic sauce for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in an even more delicious dish. Don’t forget to baste the drumsticks with the sauce halfway through baking for an extra layer of flavor.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Ingredients

For the Drumsticks

8 chicken drumsticks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Honey Garlic Sauce

1/2 cup honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Mix all ingredients well before applying to the chicken.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the drumsticks and toss until evenly coated.

Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and ground ginger.

Coat the Drumsticks

Place the coated drumsticks on a baking sheet and brush generously with the honey garlic sauce.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, and serve warm with extra sauce if desired.

Enjoy your delicious honey garlic baked drumsticks!

Pairing Suggestions

Pairing your Honey Garlic Baked Drumsticks with the right sides can elevate your meal to the next level. Consider serving them with a refreshing cucumber salad or coleslaw for a crunch that balances the sweetness of the glaze. Roasted vegetables, such as carrots or asparagus, also complement the dish beautifully, adding color and nutrition.

If you're looking to enhance the flavor profile, serve the drumsticks with a side of steamed rice or a fragrant jasmine rice pilaf. The rice will soak up the delicious honey garlic sauce, making every bite satisfying and flavorful.

Alternative Cooking Methods

While baking is the traditional method for preparing these drumsticks, you can also achieve great results by grilling them. Preheat your grill to medium heat and cook the drumsticks, turning occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The grill will impart a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the honey garlic sauce.

For those who enjoy slow cooking, consider using a slow cooker for a set-it-and-forget-it approach. Simply coat the drumsticks with the honey garlic sauce and place them in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method yields incredibly tender chicken that falls off the bone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the drumsticks?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked drumsticks for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ What can I serve with these drumsticks?

These drumsticks pair well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.