Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks
Description
These sticky honey garlic chicken drumsticks are juicy, flavorful, and coated in a rich, glossy sauce made with honey, garlic, and soy. Perfectly caramelized on the outside and tender on the inside, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for dinners, parties, or game nights. The balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors makes it irresistible.
Ingredients
- 8–10 chicken drumsticks
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ginger (optional)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tbsp water (for slurry)
Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
- Prep the chicken:
Pat drumsticks dry and season lightly with pepper. - Make the sauce:
In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, ketchup, olive oil, and ginger. - Cook the chicken:
- Bake: 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway
OR - Pan-sear then simmer in sauce for 25–30 minutes
- Bake: 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway
- Add sauce:
Pour sauce over chicken and cook until sticky and caramelized. - Thicken (optional):
Mix cornstarch with water and add to sauce. Simmer until thick. - Serve:
Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Notes
- Use skin-on drumsticks for best flavor and crispiness.
- Adjust sweetness by reducing honey if desired.
- Sauce thickens more as it cools.
Tips
- Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra caramelization 🔥
- Marinate chicken for 1–2 hours for deeper flavor
- Use air fryer for a crispier version
- Add chili flakes for a spicy kick 🌶️
Servings
- Serves 4–5 people
Nutritional Info (approx. per serving)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Sugar: 16 g
Benefits
- High protein: Supports muscle growth
- Flavor-packed: Sweet and savory balance
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients
- Great for gatherings: Crowd favorite
Q&A
Q: Can I use chicken wings instead?
A: Yes! Wings cook faster and work perfectly with this sauce.
Q: Can I make it in a slow cooker?
A: Yes—cook on low for 5–6 hours, then broil for crispiness.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, freeze for up to 2 months and reheat gently.
Q: Is it very sweet?
A: It’s balanced, but you can reduce honey or add soy sauce for more savory flavor.
