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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the appeal of chicken drumsticks. Their tender, juicy meat and crispy skin make them a favorite for both adults and children alike. In this recipe, we elevate these humble pieces of chicken into a culinary delight with our Sweet & Sticky Honey Garlic Baked Drumsticks. This dish combines the irresistible flavors of sweet honey and savory garlic, creating a tantalizing glaze that clings to each drumstick, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

Honey Garlic Baked Drumsticks

Discover the perfect comfort food with these Sweet & Sticky Honey Garlic Baked Drumsticks! This easy recipe transforms simple chicken into a flavorful dish, combining sweet honey and savory garlic for a delicious glaze that sticks to every bite. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, these drumsticks are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. Pair them with fresh vegetables or fluffy rice for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy the delightful flavors and make this recipe a new favorite!
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Ingredients
  

2 lbs chicken drumsticks

1/2 cup honey

1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust for desired heat)

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and place a wire rack on top. This will allow air to circulate around the drumsticks, giving them that perfect crispy texture.

    Prepare the Marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the honey, low sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, salt, and optional red pepper flakes. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is well blended and smooth.

      Marinate the Drumsticks: Place the chicken drumsticks into a large resealable plastic bag or a bowl. Pour the honey garlic marinade over the drumsticks, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl tightly and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse (or up to overnight for a richer taste).

        Arrange for Baking: Once marinated, take the drumsticks out of the fridge. Allow any excess marinade to drip off before placing them on the wire rack in a single layer. Make sure each drumstick is spaced apart to promote even cooking. Set aside the remaining marinade for glazing later.

          Bake the Drumsticks: Slide the baking sheet with the drumsticks into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

            Make the Glaze: While the drumsticks bake, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat until it starts to boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the marinade thickens slightly and becomes syrupy.

              Glaze the Drumsticks: After the drumsticks have baked, carefully remove them from the oven. Use a pastry brush to generously apply the thickened glaze over each drumstick, ensuring they are coated with the sticky, sweet mixture.

                Final Bake: Return the glazed drumsticks to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes. This will allow the glaze to caramelize, creating a beautiful, shiny finish.

                  Serve and Garnish: Once finished, take the drumsticks out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle the drumsticks with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a fresh and crunchy garnish.

                    Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins | Servings: 4