2. Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels—this helps the skin crisp up during baking.
Rub the drumsticks with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Make sure every drumstick is evenly coated.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and pourable.
4. Coat the Chicken
Place the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet. Pour half of the honey garlic sauce over the drumsticks, using a brush or spoon to coat them evenly. Reserve the remaining sauce for later glazing.
5. Bake the Chicken
Bake the drumsticks in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the pan and brush the chicken with the remaining honey garlic sauce. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and slightly caramelized.
6. Optional Broil for Extra Caramelization
For an extra sticky, caramelized glaze, switch your oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning—the sugars in the honey brown quickly.
7. Rest and Serve
Remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a vibrant finish.
Tips for Perfect Honey Garlic Drumsticks
- Dry the chicken skin: Moisture prevents crisping, so pat your drumsticks dry.
- Adjust sweetness: If you like a less sweet glaze, reduce the honey slightly and balance with extra soy sauce or vinegar.
- Make ahead: You can marinate the drumsticks in the honey garlic sauce for a few hours or overnight for more intense flavor.
- Pairing ideas: Serve with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
With their golden, sticky exterior and succulent meat inside, Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Drumsticks are a guaranteed hit for any occasion—be it a casual family dinner or a cozy weekend treat. The balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors makes them irresistible, and the simple method means you spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
If you want, I can also create a visual step-by-step guide with images for each stage of this recipe, which makes it even easier to follow.
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