There’s something truly irresistible about chicken drumsticks baked to perfection and drenched in a succulent honey garlic sauce. Whether you’re serving these for a casual family meal or a dinner party, they’re bound to impress with their delightful sweetness and garlicky goodness. Let’s dive into making this deliciously sticky and savory dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken drumsticks
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Sesame seeds and chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Equipments
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Basting brush
How to Make Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Drumsticks – Step By Step
Step 1:
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients and equipment. Having everything at hand not only makes cooking smoother but also ensures you don’t forget any key components during the process. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2:
Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, ginger, and chili flakes if you’re using them. Use a whisk to blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and the flavors are well married. This sauce will be the star of our dish, giving the chicken its signature sweetness and savory depth.
Step 3:
Coat the Chicken Drumsticks
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry using a paper towel. This helps the sauce to adhere better. Then, place them into a bowl and pour over half of your prepared honey garlic sauce. Toss the drumsticks until they’re evenly coated with the luscious sauce. While you’re doing this, let the sauce work its magic, soaking into the meat.
Step 4:
Arrange and Bake
Arrange the sauce-coated chicken drumsticks on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Ensure there’s ample space between each piece to allow for even cooking. Slide them into the preheated oven, and bake for about 25 minutes. The high heat will begin to caramelize the sugars in the honey, giving the chicken its beautiful color and flavor.
Step 5:
Baste and Continue Baking
Remove the chicken from the oven and brush them with the remaining sauce. This step ensures an extra layer of flavor and begins to build that irresistible sticky finish. Return the tray to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the drumsticks are fully cooked and glazed to perfection.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Once your drumsticks are baked to golden perfection, it’s time to serve them up. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and freshly chopped parsley for a nice textural contrast and a pop of color. These drumsticks are delightful alongside steamed vegetables, a crisp salad, or simply with a side of fluffy rice. Enjoy them hot off the tray for the best flavor experience.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce for a few hours or overnight before baking. You can also experiment with the sauce – add a splash of lemon juice for some tang or finely diced chili for a more pronounced heat. Remember, each oven differs slightly in heat, so adjust the baking time as necessary for perfectly cooked chicken.
Protein-Packed Variation: Beef Up Your Drumsticks
For those looking to increase their protein intake, consider coating the chicken with a mixture of protein powder and spices before the sauce. This unique approach not only ups the protein content but also adds an extra layer of crunch once baked.
Low-Carb Twist: Keeping It Keto
Looking for a low-carb version? Swap honey with sugar-free sweetener like erythritol and ensure the soy sauce is low-sodium and keto-friendly. This version is perfect for those following a keto diet but still craving deliciously immersive flavors.
Storage Instructions
If you find yourself with leftovers, these chicken drumsticks store beautifully. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should keep for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the oven until warmed through, or use a microwave if you’re in a hurry.
FAQs
- Can I grill the drumsticks instead of baking? Absolutely! Grilling adds a fantastic smoky flavor to the drumsticks.
- Is there a vegetarian equivalent for this recipe? Yes, tofu or cauliflower could nicely absorb the honey garlic flavors.
- What should I do if my sauce turns out too thick? Simply add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth to thin it out to your liking.
- How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Savor the Sweet and Savory: A Delicious Homage to Flavor
In conclusion, honey garlic baked chicken drumsticks are more than just a meal; they’re a culinary celebration of sweet and savory flavors perfectly balanced. I invite you to try this recipe and share your delightful results in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and spread the joy of this incredibly tasty dish!
Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Instructions
Steps
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the drumsticks with half of the honey garlic sauce.
- Place the drumsticks on the baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes.
- Baste with remaining sauce and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until fully cooked.