There’s something irresistibly comforting about chicken drumsticks, especially when they’re coated in a luscious honey garlic glaze. This recipe for Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks is not just a dinner option; it’s a family favorite that promises to bring everyone to the table with smiles. The sweet and savory combination is perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to make a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks are a delightful blend of flavors that appeal to both kids and adults. The sticky, sweet glaze contrasts beautifully with the savory notes of garlic, making each bite a flavor bomb. Plus, chicken drumsticks are budget-friendly and easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for busy weeknights. This recipe is versatile enough to pair with various sides, from fluffy rice to vibrant salads, ensuring you never get bored.
What You’ll Gather
- 2.5 lbs chicken drumsticks – The star of the show, tender and juicy.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavor.
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes – Adds a hint of heat to the dish.
- 1 tsp olive oil – For cooking the aromatics.
- 1/2 cup honey – The sweet component that makes this dish irresistible.
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce – Adds depth and umami flavor.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth – Keeps the drumsticks moist during cooking.
- 1 small onion, diced – For a savory base.
- 5 garlic cloves, minced – The aromatic powerhouse of the dish.
- 1 tsp cornstarch – To thicken the glaze, giving it a beautiful sheen.
Essential Tools for Success
- Large mixing bowl – For marinating the chicken.
- Skillet or Dutch oven – Ideal for searing and cooking the chicken.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements make for perfect results.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the sauce.
- Serving platter – To present your delicious chicken drumsticks.
Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks Cooking Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by patting the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Season the drumsticks generously with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Step 2: Create the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, chicken broth, diced onion, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until everything is combined.
Step 3: Marinate the Drumsticks
Add the seasoned chicken drumsticks to the bowl with the marinade. Toss to coat all the drumsticks evenly in the mixture. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for better flavor, refrigerate for up to 4 hours.
Step 4: Sear the Drumsticks
In a skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated drumsticks, reserving the marinade for later. Sear the drumsticks for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Step 5: Cook with the Marinade
After searing, pour the reserved marinade over the chicken. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the drumsticks are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the cornstarch mixture into the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks to a serving platter. Drizzle the thickened sauce over the drumsticks, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy every sticky, flavorful bite!
Variations by Season
- Summer: Serve the drumsticks with a side of grilled vegetables and a fresh corn salad.
- Fall: Pair with roasted sweet potatoes and a warm apple salad for a cozy meal.
- Winter: Enjoy with creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed greens for a hearty comfort dish.
- Spring: Serve alongside a light quinoa salad and steamed asparagus to celebrate the season.
Chef’s Notes
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the marinade.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- If you don’t have chicken broth, water can be used, but the broth adds depth.
- For an alternative to honey, maple syrup can be used for a different flavor profile.
How to Store & Reheat
Leftover Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the drumsticks in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, but the oven will help maintain their crispiness.
Common Qs About Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks
Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used in place of drumsticks, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as they may require a bit longer to cook thoroughly.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The best way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Alternatively, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken to check that the juices run clear.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken drumsticks up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to cook them on the day you plan to serve them for the best flavor and texture.
What can I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. It’s versatile enough to complement many flavors!
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Before You Go
If you’re looking for a recipe that delivers on flavor and simplicity, these Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks are a must-try. The combination of honey and garlic creates a sticky glaze that envelops the tender chicken, making it a dish that’s hard to resist. Remember, the joy of cooking is not just about the end result; it’s also about the love and care you put into each step. So gather your ingredients, follow this guide, and make a meal that will be cherished by your family and friends. Enjoy!
Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients
- 2.5 lbs chicken drumsticks tender and juicy
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes adds a hint of heat
- 1 tsp olive oil for cooking the aromatics
- 1/2 cup honey the sweet component
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce adds depth and umami flavor
- 1/4 cup chicken broth keeps the drumsticks moist
- 1 small onion diced
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp cornstarch to thicken the glaze
Instructions
- Begin by patting the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, chicken broth, diced onion, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
- Add the seasoned chicken drumsticks to the marinade. Toss to coat evenly. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for better flavor.
- In a skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated drumsticks, reserving the marinade. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Pour the reserved marinade over the chicken. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 30 minutes, or until cooked through.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Stir into the skillet after the chicken is cooked. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and transfer the drumsticks to a serving platter. Drizzle with the thickened sauce and serve hot.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Skillet or Dutch oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Serving Platter
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the marinade.
- For a spicier kick, increase crushed red pepper flakes or add hot sauce.
- Water can substitute for chicken broth, but broth adds depth.
- Maple syrup can be used instead of honey for a different flavor.
