Juicy honey garlic chicken drumsticks baked or pan-seared in a sticky, sweet, and savory glaze. An easy, flavorful recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients
- 8–10 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons oil (for cooking)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
- ⅓ cup honey
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional, for depth)
- 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Season them evenly with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven (If Baking)
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with foil or parchment paper.
Cooking Instructions (Oven Method)
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the drumsticks for 3–4 minutes on each side until lightly browned. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if needed.
Step 4: Arrange for Baking
Place the drumsticks on the prepared baking tray in a single layer.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, ketchup, vinegar (or lemon juice), chili flakes, and black pepper.
Step 6: Coat the Chicken
Pour or brush the sauce over the drumsticks, ensuring they are well coated.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 35–45 minutes, turning the drumsticks halfway through and spooning the sauce over them again for a sticky glaze.
Alternative Method (Stovetop Only)
Step 8: Cook in Pan
After searing, reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in the sauce, cover, and cook for 25–30 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.
Tips for Best Results
- Turn the chicken during cooking to evenly coat with glaze.
- Do not burn the garlic; keep heat moderate once sauce is added.
- Use skin-on drumsticks for better flavor and texture.
- Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a caramelized finish.