Drumstick Chicken With Honey Garlic Sauce

Name: Drumstick Chicken With Honey Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken drumsticks; 1/4 cup honey; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds; 1 green onion, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: World Kitchen Classics

I love making Drumstick Chicken with Honey Garlic Sauce because it combines the juiciness of chicken legs with a sweet and savory glaze that’s simply irresistible. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during busy weeknights. The sauce is quick to whip up and packed with flavor, making it a perfect meal that my whole family enjoys. Plus, the roasting technique gives the chicken a delightful crispiness that we can’t get enough of!

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2026-02-28T08:17:35.474Z

When I first tried making Drumstick Chicken with Honey Garlic Sauce, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying it turned out to be. The combination of honey, garlic, and a touch of soy sauce creates this mouthwatering sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. I remember my first bite—the juicy, tender chicken fell right off the bone while the sauce enveloped it in a sticky sweetness that I couldn’t resist.

After experimenting with different cooking methods, I found that roasting the chicken allows the skin to crisp up while keeping the meat succulent. Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions right before serving elevates the dish, not only making it look gorgeous but enhancing the flavors. This dish truly brings everyone to the table!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors
Crispy skin with tender meat that falls off the bone
Easy to make, ideal for any weeknight dinner

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken drumsticks is a crucial step that elevates the flavor profile of this dish. The honey garlic marinade not only infuses the meat with a sweet and savory essence, but it also helps to tenderize the chicken, ensuring each bite is juicy and succulent. If you can, allow the chicken to marinate for longer than the recommended 15 minutes, as this will intensify the flavor. A few hours or even overnight in the fridge can take your dish to another level.

When marinating, make sure to coat the drumsticks thoroughly. I recommend using a large resealable bag for two reasons: it allows for even coverage of the marinade and makes cleanup a breeze. Just remember to squeeze out any excess air before sealing the bag to ensure the chicken is fully saturated with the marinade.

Achieving Perfectly Roasted Chicken

Roasting the chicken at the right temperature is essential for achieving that desirable crispy skin. Make sure your oven is properly preheated to 400°F (200°C) before placing the chicken inside. This high heat will caramelize the sugars in the honey, resulting in a golden, slightly crispy exterior. Keep an eye on the chicken during the last 10 minutes of roasting to avoid overcooking; the skin should start to blister and have a lovely golden color.

Using parchment paper on your baking sheet not only facilitates easy cleanup but also prevents the chicken from sticking. If you notice that the edges of the chicken skin aren't crisping up as much as you'd like, you can switch your oven to broil for the final 2-3 minutes, but monitor closely to avoid burning.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Drumstick Chicken with Honey Garlic Sauce:

Ingredients

4 chicken drumsticks
1/4 cup honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
1 green onion, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all these fresh ingredients on hand for a delightful meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Drumstick Chicken with Honey Garlic Sauce:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Season the chicken drumsticks with salt and pepper, then coat them in the honey garlic marinade. Allow them to marinate for at least 15 minutes for maximum flavor.

Roast the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.

Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Drumstick Chicken with Honey Garlic Sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the honey garlic sauce. This will enhance the taste even more and ensure tender meat.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re out of honey, maple syrup can be a great substitute that pairs well with the garlic and soy sauce. It will impart a different flavor, but the results will still be delicious. For those who prefer a sugar-free option, consider using agave nectar or a low-calorie sweetener, ensuring to adjust the quantity according to taste.

For a gluten-free variation, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. This swap maintains the recipe's savory depth without compromising dietary needs.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover chicken drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For optimal freshness, you can also freeze the cooked drumsticks. Make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, and they will last for up to three months. Just be sure to label and date the container for easy reference.

When reheating, I recommend using the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to retain that crispy texture. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works in a pinch, but the skin may not maintain its crispness. If using the microwave, heat in short intervals and cover with a damp paper towel to keep the moisture in.

Serving Suggestions

To complement the sweet and savory notes of the honey garlic chicken, serve it over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa. This pairing not only absorbs the delicious sauce but also adds heartiness to the meal. For a colorful touch, consider incorporating some stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad on the side to balance the richness of the chicken.

If you're hosting a gathering, these drumsticks can easily be served as an appetizer. Simply cut them into smaller pieces and skewer them with toothpicks for a bite-sized treat. Adding a small dish of extra honey garlic sauce for dipping will elevate the experience even more.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs or breasts, but cooking times may vary slightly.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the honey garlic sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.