Juicy chicken drumsticks baked in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce—tender on the inside, caramelized on the outside, and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a comforting, fuss-free way to enjoy flavorful chicken with minimal ingredients and maximum taste. The honey garlic glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a sticky coating that’s both sweet and tangy with just a hint of savory garlic richness. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual family meals, and pairs wonderfully with rice, vegetables, or salad.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken drumsticks
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Garlic, minced
Honey
Soy sauce
Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
Water or chicken broth (optional, to thin the sauce)
Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish or sheet with foil and lightly grease.
Pat drumsticks dry and season with salt and pepper.
Arrange drumsticks in a single layer in the baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, garlic, and vinegar.
Pour sauce evenly over the chicken.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, basting with the sauce halfway through, until chicken is fully cooked and glaze is thickened.
For a more caramelized finish, broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes at the end of cooking.
Garnish with chopped herbs if desired and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy version.
Use chicken thighs or wings instead of drumsticks.
Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
Incorporate ginger or sesame oil into the sauce for extra depth.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through.
The chicken can also be reheated in a covered skillet over medium heat.
Freezing is possible, but the texture of the skin may change slightly upon reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use skinless drumsticks?

Yes, though the skin helps with crispness and flavor. Skinless drumsticks may need slightly less baking time.

2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C), and the juices should run clear when pierced.

3. Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, marinate for up to 8 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

4. Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be if you use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

5. Can I cook this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, but the sauce won’t caramelize the same way. Broil the chicken briefly afterward to achieve that finish.

6. What side dishes go well with this recipe?

Serve with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.

7. How do I thicken the sauce more?

Reduce it in a saucepan or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water) if needed.

8. Can I make this with boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless thighs or breasts work well. Reduce baking time to 25–30 minutes.

9. What if my sauce burns?

Cover with foil during baking or reduce the oven temperature slightly. Basting helps prevent burning.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger baking dish and increase ingredients accordingly. Cooking time may vary slightly.

Conclusion

Baked honey garlic chicken drumsticks are a flavorful, oven-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare yet deeply satisfying. With a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and savory garlic richness, this recipe is a staple for both casual and special occasions alike.