Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks

Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 chicken drumsticks; Chopped green onions for garnish; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Taste Adventures

I absolutely love making Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks for my family. The sticky, sweet, and savory glaze perfectly complements the tender chicken, creating a dish that's hard to resist. I find that marinating the drumsticks in the honey garlic mixture really infuses them with flavor, and grilling them gives them that delicious char. In just a short time, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like a special occasion. Plus, it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-13T16:22:19.743Z

When I first made Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks, I was amazed by how quickly they disappeared from the dinner table. The combination of honey and garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that not only adds incredible flavor but also gives the chicken a beautiful shiny finish. I’ve learned that letting the drumsticks marinate for at least an hour really enhances the taste, making each bite even more appetizing.

One of my favorite tips is to grill the drumsticks rather than bake them. The high heat of the grill caramelizes the honey, creating a slight crispiness on the outside while keeping the meat juicy. This method has become my go-to for quick weeknight dinners or when entertaining guests because it elevates the dish effortlessly.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect blend of sweetness and savory goodness
Easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
A crowd-pleaser that works for family dinners or gatherings

Maximizing Flavor with Marination

Marinating the chicken drumsticks is a crucial step in this recipe that shouldn't be overlooked. The honey, soy sauce, and garlic blend works as a powerful flavor infusion, enhancing the natural taste of the chicken. Aim for a marination time of at least 30 minutes, but if you can plan ahead, marinating for 2-4 hours will yield even deeper flavors. Use a resealable plastic bag for easy coating and minimal cleanup. Just make sure to massage the marinade into the chicken for optimal coverage.

During marination, the acids in the vinegar and soy sauce will not only tenderize the chicken but also add to the caramelization process when grilling. A little bit of ground ginger adds warmth and depth to the dish, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the honey. If you’re constrained on time, even a 15-minute soak will help the flavors to adhere better compared to cooking the chicken directly.

Grilling Techniques for Perfect Texture

When it's time to grill, achieving the right heat is essential. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ideally around 375°F to 400°F. This temperature will allow the chicken to cook through while developing beautiful, charred edges. Flooding the grill with the marinade can lead to flare-ups, which may burn the chicken, so it’s best to remove excess marinade before placing the drumsticks on the grill. A good tip is to always keep a close eye on them during cooking and turn them every 5-7 minutes.

For an added layer of flavor, consider basting the drumsticks with reserved marinade during the last few minutes of grilling. This step not only enhances taste but also creates a sticky glaze that clings to the chicken. To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F, and look for a golden color and juices running clear.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks is versatile, and you can easily pair them with rice, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete meal. The glaze is rich and sticky, meaning that a simple side will complement rather than compete. I love to sprinkle extra sesame seeds and green onions just before serving for a burst of freshness and crunch. You could also serve it with a side of dipping sauce made from leftover marinade, just ensure you heat it to eliminate any raw chicken contamination.

If you’re planning to make extra, cooked drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken; simply allow them to cool completely, then pack them tightly in freezer bags, avoiding any air. They can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through, retaining their deliciously sticky glaze.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon ground ginger
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken

8 chicken drumsticks
Chopped green onions for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish

Mix all the marinade ingredients well and pour them over the chicken drumsticks. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for best results.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken drumsticks and coat them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Grill the Drumsticks

Remove the drumsticks from the marinade and place them on the grill. Grill for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a beautiful golden color.

Serve

Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks with steamed rice or your favorite side dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also use chicken thighs or wings if you prefer.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Additionally, honey can be swapped for maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness—this variation is especially delightful. If garlic isn’t your favorite, you could try using garlic powder to achieve a milder flavor profile while still keeping that aromatic essence.

For a spicy twist, consider adding some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade. This will introduce a lovely heat that pairs well with the sweetness of honey. To alter the palate even further, you could experiment with citrus juice, such as lemon or lime, which adds a refreshing zing.

Recipe Variations

For a change in texture, try baking the drumsticks instead of grilling. Preheat your oven to 425°F and place the marinated drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and caramelized. This method ensures that the chicken stays moist while still achieving a beautiful golden brown outside.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can create a Honey Garlic Chicken bowl by slicing the grilled drumsticks and placing them atop a bed of rice or quinoa, then drizzling with any remaining glaze. Top with fresh vegetables, avocado, and a dollop of yogurt can elevate your meal to restaurant-level with minimal effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake these chicken drumsticks instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake the drumsticks in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 40-45 minutes, turning them halfway.

→ How do I store the leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I use another type of vinegar?

Absolutely! Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for rice vinegar if that's what you have on hand.

→ What sides pair well with Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks?

Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad to complement the flavors of the chicken.