Microwave Honey-Barbecue Drumsticks
Juicy, flavorful chicken drumsticks glazed with sweet honey and smoky barbecue sauce, perfect for quick and easy meals ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1-cup glass measuring cup, combine barbecue sauce, honey, and orange juice; stir to mix.
- Rinse chicken drumsticks and pat dry with paper towels.
- Place drumsticks in a microwave dish (12 x 7 1/2 x 2 inches).
- Brush chicken with the sauce and cover with waxed paper.
- Microwave on High for 5 minutes.
- Turn dish and brush chicken with more sauce.
- Cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes or until no longer pink inside.
- Cook any remaining sauce on High for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Carefully spoon the sauce over the cooked chicken before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the sauce mixture. If you don't have frozen orange juice, fresh orange juice or even a splash of apple cider vinegar can work well. Ensure the drumsticks are evenly coated for the best flavor. For a quicker prep, use store-bought sauce or try Lyn'S Chicken Drummettes for a similar taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these honey-barbecue drumsticks with a fresh salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. They pair beautifully with rice or baked potatoes. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside garlic bread or your favorite dipping sauces. For more chicken inspiration, check out other chicken recipes like Jo D'S Chicken Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the drumsticks on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for a crisper skin.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Honey-Barbecue Drumsticks contains roughly 150 calories, with 3g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% 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 other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs or breasts, but cooking times may vary. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption. Thighs may require a bit longer, while breasts might cook faster, so keep an eye on them.
What can I do if I don't have a microwave-safe dish?
If you lack a microwave-safe dish, you can use a glass or ceramic baking dish that fits in your microwave. Alternatively, consider using a microwave-safe plate, making sure to cover the chicken with wax paper or a microwave-safe cover to retain moisture.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add heat, incorporate hot sauce directly into the barbecue sauce mixture or sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the drumsticks before microwaving. Adjust the amount to your taste preference, and be sure to balance the flavors with the honey and orange juice.
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).