Glazed Chicken Drumsticks
Tender chicken drumsticks glazed with a savory-sweet sauce, featuring soy, honey, and a hint of chili and ginger, creating a flavorful and appealing dish perfect for casual dinners or gatherings. The process yields juicy, caramelized meat with a delightful kick, sure to satisfy fans of bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken drumsticks in an ungreased shallow glass dish.
- Mix soy sauce, honey, vegetable oil, chili sauce, salt, ground ginger, and garlic powder to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Line a broiler pan with aluminum foil.
- Place chicken on a rack in the broiler pan.
- Brush the chicken with remaining sauce.
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until done, turning occasionally and basting with sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, marinate the drumsticks overnight for a deeper taste. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, increase the honey slightly or add a splash of orange juice. You can substitute the chili sauce with sriracha for extra heat, or use teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile. This recipe pairs beautifully with Ramen Noodle Salad as a refreshing side.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the glazed chicken drumsticks with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. They also go well with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious glaze. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with a light coleslaw or baked potatoes. This dish also works wonderfully for casual gatherings or game day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover glazed chicken drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven method helps maintain the crispiness of the skin.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glazed Chicken Drumsticks contains roughly 85 calories, with 3g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (151% of the Daily Value) and potassium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 637mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for drumsticks. They may require a slightly different cooking time, so check for doneness at about 40-50 minutes, depending on their size. The flavor from the glaze will still complement the thighs beautifully.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the drumstick. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced, and the meat should no longer be pink.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Absolutely! Grilling the drumsticks adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium heat and cook the chicken, turning occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes. Brush with the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for a delicious glaze.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).