Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Drumsticks Easy and Tasty Recipe

Looking for a simple yet delicious meal? You’ve found it! My Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Drumsticks are easy to make and packed with flavor. With just a few key ingredients, a quick marinade, and simple baking steps, you can impress everyone at the dinner table. Let’s get cooking with this recipe that brings sweet and savory together in the best way! Check out the full directions below to master this dish!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

– 8 chicken drumsticks

– 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

– 1/4 cup honey

– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

– 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

– 1 teaspoon sesame oil

– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnishing

To make honey soy glazed chicken drumsticks, you need fresh chicken drumsticks. They are juicy and tasty, making them perfect for this dish. The marinade gives the chicken a sweet and savory flavor.

The marinade uses soy sauce and honey. Soy sauce adds umami, while honey provides sweetness. Apple cider vinegar gives a nice tang. The garlic and ginger add depth to the flavor. Sesame oil adds a nutty touch, and black pepper gives a little heat. If you like spice, add red pepper flakes.

For garnishing, use sesame seeds and chopped green onions. They add a nice crunch and fresh flavor.

This combination of ingredients makes a dish that is easy and fun to prepare. You can check the [Full Recipe] for more details on how to put everything together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of the Marinade

Combining Ingredients

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In it, add 1/4 cup of low-sodium soy sauce and 1/4 cup of honey. Next, pour in 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Toss in 2 cloves of finely minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Add 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper and, if you like heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Use a whisk to blend everything until smooth.

Marinating the Chicken

Once your marinade is ready, add 8 chicken drumsticks to the bowl. Make sure each drumstick gets a good coat of the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. For better flavor, let it marinate overnight.

Baking Process

Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet

When you are ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This will help with cleanup later.

Cooking Time and Temperature

After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge. Place the drumsticks on the baking sheet, making sure they are spaced out. Keep any leftover marinade for later. Bake the drumsticks for 25 minutes. This will help them cook and start to brown nicely.

Finishing Touches

Thickening the Marinade

While the chicken bakes, pour the leftover marinade into a small saucepan. Heat it over medium heat until it boils. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes. You want it to thicken and look syrupy.

Final Baking Steps

After 25 minutes, take the drumsticks out of the oven. Brush the thickened marinade over them. Put the drumsticks back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have a golden, caramelized skin. Once done, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This rest time keeps the chicken juicy.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Marinade

Marinating Time Recommendations

For the best flavor, marinate your chicken drumsticks for at least 1 hour. If you can, let them soak overnight. This extra time helps the flavors seep deep into the meat. It makes the chicken juicy and tasty.

Flavor Enhancements

You can add extra flavors to the marinade. Try a splash of orange juice for a citrus twist. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil also add a nice touch. If you want heat, add more red pepper flakes. Feel free to experiment!

Cooking Method Variations

Oven vs. Grill

You can bake the drumsticks or grill them. Baking is easy and keeps the chicken moist. Grilling gives a smoky flavor and crispy skin. If you grill, keep an eye on the heat to avoid burning.

Slow Cooker Option

A slow cooker is a great choice for busy days. Simply add the marinated chicken and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This method makes the chicken very tender. You can still thicken the sauce at the end for extra flavor.

You can find the full recipe above to get started on this delicious dish!

Variations

Different Flavor Profiles

You can change the taste of honey soy glazed chicken drumsticks by adding spices. If you like heat, add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the marinade. Start with a little. You can always add more if you want it spicier. This kick balances well with the sweet honey.

Another fun twist is to infuse citrus. Try adding the juice of fresh oranges or limes. This brightens the dish and adds a fresh zing. You can also use zest for a stronger flavor. Citrus and soy sauce work great together, giving a tangy taste.

Alternative Proteins

If you want to switch things up, use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks. Thighs are juicier and more tender. The marinade seeps in well, making them super tasty. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

For a vegetarian option, consider using tofu or seitan. Both absorb the marinade well, giving them a rich flavor. Cut them into bite-sized pieces and marinate just like the chicken. Bake them in the oven or grill them for a smoky taste. This way, everyone can enjoy the flavor of honey soy glazed goodness.

For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above!

Storage Information

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Drumsticks, you may have some leftovers. Store them safely to keep them fresh.

– Refrigeration Tips: Place the drumsticks in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. You can keep them in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure the container is sealed well to avoid any unwanted odors.

– Freezing Instructions: If you want to store them longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each drumstick in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Recommendations

To enjoy your leftovers, reheating them properly is key.

– Best Methods for Reheating: The oven is the best choice for reheating. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until they reach 165°F (74°C). You can also use a microwave, but this method may make the skin less crispy. If you choose the microwave, heat them in short bursts. Check the temperature often to avoid overcooking.

With these tips, your Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Drumsticks will taste just as good as when they were first made!

FAQs

Common Questions about Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Can I use bone-in or skinless chicken?

Yes, you can use either bone-in or skinless chicken. Bone-in chicken gives more flavor. Skinless chicken is leaner and cooks faster. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How to tell when chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you do not have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part. The meat should be white, and the juices should run clear.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Honey soy glazed chicken drumsticks go well with many sides. Here are a few ideas:

– Steamed rice or fried rice

– Roasted vegetables (like broccoli or carrots)

– A fresh green salad

– Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes

– Stir-fried noodles

These sides balance the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken. Enjoy experimenting! For the full recipe, check out the cooking instructions above.

Honey soy glazed chicken drumsticks offer a tasty way to enjoy a classic dish. We covered the key ingredients, from chicken to marinades and garnishes. I provided step-by-step instructions for marinating, baking, and finishing touches to elevate flavors. You also learned tips on cooking methods and storage options for leftovers.

Experiment with spices or alternative proteins to keep it exciting. With these tips, you can create a dish that’s perfect every time. Enjoy your cooking and make this recipe your own!

Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Indulge in these irresistible Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Drumsticks that bring a sweet and savory twist to your dinner table! With just a handful of simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will impress friends and family. Perfect for any occasion, these juicy drumsticks are sure to become a favorite. Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your cooking tonight!

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Ingredients

  

8 chicken drumsticks

1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

1/4 cup honey

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnishing

Instructions

 

In a generous mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Use a whisk to blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.

Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl, ensuring each piece is fully coated in the flavorful marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the drumsticks to marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for a deeper flavor infusion.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil or parchment paper to facilitate easy cleanup after cooking.

After marinating, take the chicken drumsticks out of the refrigerator and arrange them neatly on the prepared baking sheet. Reserve any leftover marinade in the bowl for later use.

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the drumsticks for 25 minutes, allowing them to cook through and begin browning.

As the chicken is baking, transfer the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring the marinade to a rolling boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and becomes syrupy.

After 25 minutes, carefully brush the thickened marinade over the drumsticks, ensuring an even coating. Return the drumsticks to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is beautifully caramelized and golden.

Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes. This enhances the juiciness of the chicken.

Before serving, sprinkle the drumsticks with sesame seeds and chopped green onions to add a vibrant and fresh touch to the dish.

- Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 4