Step 4: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup, and lightly grease it with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Step 5: Bake the Drumsticks
Arrange the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each piece so the heat circulates evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the tray and brush the drumsticks with some of the remaining honey garlic marinade. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and caramelized.
Step 6: Optional Broil for Extra Caramelization
For an extra glossy, sticky finish, turn on the broiler for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking. Keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent burning. The sugars in the honey will create a beautifully caramelized crust.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Perfect Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks:
- Use room-temperature chicken for even cooking.
- Don’t skip patting the chicken dry; this prevents soggy skin.
- Baste halfway through baking to enhance flavor and stickiness.
- Adjust honey and garlic according to your taste preference for sweetness or pungency.
Conclusion:
Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Drumsticks are a crowd-pleaser that balance sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors perfectly. Easy to make yet impressive enough for any dinner, this recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken with a sticky, caramelized glaze that keeps everyone coming back for more.
If you want, I can also create a shortcuts version with a 5-step ultra-fast method that keeps all the flavor but makes it even quicker for weeknights. Do you want me to do that?
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