Drumstick Chicken With Honey Garlic Sauce

Name: Drumstick Chicken With Honey Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken drumsticks; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/3 cup honey; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

Highlighted under: Warm Inspiration

I am always on the lookout for delicious yet simple dishes that can impress my family and friends, and this Drumstick Chicken with Honey Garlic Sauce is a perfect choice. The savory and sweet combination of honey and garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that complements the juicy drumsticks beautifully. After trying various marinades, I found that this blend creates a rich flavor that caramelizes perfectly in the oven, making every bite irresistible. Whether it's a weekday dinner or a gathering, this dish guarantees smiles all around.

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:41:35.142Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I didn't expect the honey garlic sauce to be such a game-changer. The balance of sweet and savory not only adds depth to the dish but also enhances the natural flavors of the chicken. I discovered that allowing the drumsticks to marinate for at least 30 minutes before baking helps the flavors infuse deeply into the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful meal every time.

Additionally, I love to roast some veggies alongside the chicken, allowing them to soak up the extra sauce and bringing vibrant colors to the plate. This creates a one-pan meal that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. It's also a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Irresistibly sticky sweet and savory glaze
Simple preparation with minimal cleanup
Perfectly crispy skin on juicy drumsticks
A crowd-pleaser that's great for gatherings

Understanding the Marinade

The honey garlic sauce not only acts as a flavor enhancer but also contributes to the rich caramelization you’ll see during baking. Honey contains sugars that caramelize beautifully when exposed to high heat, leading to that irresistible sticky finish. The garlic helps to deepen the flavor profile, bringing depth with its savory notes. If you find yourself short on time, you can use store-bought sauces; however, nothing beats the freshness of homemade.

Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes—or up to 2 hours—ensures the drumsticks soak up all the flavors. The acidity of the apple cider vinegar helps to tenderize the meat while the soy sauce adds a savory umami punch. Remember, for a less sweet option, you can reduce the honey slightly and incorporate a bit more soy sauce to balance the flavors.

Achieving Crispy Skin

For perfectly crispy skin, starting with a high oven temperature is key. When you place your chicken in the oven, make sure it is preheated to 400°F (200°C), as this high heat will help to render the fat from the skin and caramelize the sugars in the honey garlic sauce. If you notice your chicken is browning too quickly, you can tent it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while still allowing it to cook thoroughly.

Arranging the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper instead of directly on the pan minimizes sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Additionally, placing the chicken in a single layer without crowding ensures even cooking and crisping, allowing hot air to circulate around each piece. If you have extra sauce after marinating, consider brushing it onto the chicken halfway through the cooking process for an extra glaze.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken drumsticks
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Honey Garlic Sauce

1/3 cup honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

Make sure to adjust the quantities if you're cooking for a larger group.

Instructions

Prepare the chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken drumsticks with salt and pepper. In a large bowl, toss the drumsticks with olive oil until evenly coated.

Make the honey garlic sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger until combined.

Combine and marinate

Pour the honey garlic sauce over the seasoned drumsticks, ensuring they are well coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.

Bake the drumsticks

Arrange the marinated drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy, turning halfway through.

Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the top and enjoy!

Feel free to adjust the sauce ingredients according to your taste preferences!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're planning for a busy weeknight, consider preparing the drumsticks in advance. The honey garlic marinade can be made up to three days ahead, allowing the flavors to develop further. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you're ready to cook. Just remember to remove extra marinade before baking to prevent excess liquid, which can inhibit crispiness.

Leftover drumsticks can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheating is straightforward; place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method helps restore their crispy skin. For longer storage, you can freeze marinated raw drumsticks for up to 3 months; just make sure to allow them to thaw in the fridge before cooking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delectable honey garlic sauce. For a fresh touch, I recommend adding a simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette; the peppery greens offset the richness of the chicken perfectly.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding variations to your honey garlic sauce. Incorporating chili flakes or sriracha can provide a zesty kick that balances the sweetness of the honey. Alternatively, for a tropical twist, mix in some pineapple juice or coconut milk for a unique flavor profile that transports you to a summer BBQ, regardless of the season.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! Boneless thighs or breasts can also be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I make this recipe healthy?

You can reduce the amount of honey and replace some ingredients with lower-sodium alternatives for a healthier option.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day ahead; just keep it covered in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

I recommend serving it with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables to complement the flavors.