Honey-Baked Drumsticks
Sweet and savory honey-baked chicken drumsticks feature a glossy glaze with lemon and soy, perfect for casual dinners or family gatherings, offering tender, flavorful bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine flour and pepper in a plastic bag.
- Place the chicken drumsticks in the bag with the flour mixture.
- Shake to coat the drumsticks evenly.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of margarine in a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Roll the floured drumsticks in the melted margarine to coat them.
- Bake the drumsticks for 20 minutes.
- Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of margarine in a small saucepan.
- Stir in honey, lemon juice, and soy sauce until well mixed.
- Turn the drumsticks over in the baking pan.
- Pour the honey sauce over all the drumsticks.
- Bake for an additional 30 minutes, basting once with the sauce until tender and glazed.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of flour when coating the drumsticks. You can also substitute honey with maple syrup for a different flavor profile. If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. Ensure the drumsticks are evenly coated for the best glaze. Remember to baste them halfway through cooking for maximum flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these honey-baked drumsticks with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. They also pair beautifully with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious glaze. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside some crunchy coleslaw or homemade cornbread for a delightful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the drumsticks on a baking sheet and cover with foil to retain moisture. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Honey-Baked Drumsticks contains roughly 125 calories, with 4g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 skinless chicken drumsticks for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skinless drumsticks, but they may not achieve the same crispy texture as skin-on. Consider adjusting the cooking time slightly, as skinless chicken can cook faster. Baste generously to keep them moist and flavorful.
What can I substitute for margarine?
You can easily substitute margarine with unsalted butter or olive oil for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil works well, but be aware it may impart a slight coconut taste.
How can I make this recipe spicy?
To add heat, incorporate chili powder or cayenne pepper into the flour mixture before coating the drumsticks. Alternatively, you can mix sriracha or hot sauce into the honey glaze for an extra kick while basting. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
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).