Baked Chicken Drumsticks in Honey and Soy

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Baked Chicken Drumsticks in Honey and Soy

Tender, juicy, and packed with rich umami flavor, these baked chicken drumsticks are glazed with a savory-sweet blend of soy sauce and honey. With the added aroma of garlic and ginger, every bite is full of depth and comfort. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering, this easy recipe is sure to please. Serve them with a side of steamed rice or sautéed greens for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Simple ingredients, big flavor
  • Perfectly crispy skin with a sticky glaze
  • Ideal for meal prep or weeknight dinners

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs chicken drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on or skinless)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 5 tbsp honey
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp freshly grated ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Make the Marinade
    In a large shallow baking dish (approximately 4.8 quarts and 2 inches deep), whisk together olive oil, sesame oil, honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and pepper until well combined.
  2. Marinate the Chicken
    Add the drumsticks to the dish and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (ideally 2 to 12 hours) to allow the flavors to infuse.
  3. Preheat the Oven
    When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Bake the Chicken
    Remove the plastic wrap and place the dish in the oven.

    • Bake for 25 minutes, skin side up.
    • Flip the drumsticks, bake for another 10 minutes skin side down.
    • Flip once more to skin side up and bake for a final 10 minutes to crisp the skin.

    Total baking time: 45–55 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 180°F for dark meat (or 170°F for white meat).

  5. Garnish and Serve
    Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm with your favorite sides.

Tips for Success:

  • Marination Time: The longer the chicken marinates, the richer the flavor.
  • Crispier Skin: For an extra-crispy finish, broil the drumsticks for the last 2–3 minutes of baking.
  • Substitutes: This recipe works well with chicken thighs too—just adjust baking time accordingly.

 

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