Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks with Rice

Highlighted under: Global Taste Adventures

This Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks with Rice recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.

Anna

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-16T22:02:18.939Z

This dish combines the rich flavors of honey and soy sauce, marinated perfectly into juicy chicken drumsticks. Served on a bed of fluffy rice, it's a meal that brings everyone to the table.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
  • Juicy chicken with a crispy skin
  • Easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners
  • Pairs wonderfully with rice for a complete meal

The Perfect Dinner Solution

Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks with Rice is more than just a meal; it's a solution for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of sweet honey and savory soy sauce not only elevates the chicken's flavor but also creates a beautiful glaze that caramelizes in the oven, resulting in juicy meat with a delightful crispy skin. This dish is perfect for families and gatherings alike, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Additionally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the marinade to suit your taste preferences by adding spices or herbs. For a spicy kick, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or sriracha. The flexibility of this dish makes it suitable for various occasions, from casual family dinners to more formal gatherings.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken drumsticks are a great source of protein, making them a nutritious choice for any meal. When paired with jasmine rice, you not only get a hearty dish but also a balance of carbohydrates, which provides energy throughout the day. The natural sweetness of honey adds a touch of healthiness without overwhelming the dish with refined sugars.

Moreover, the addition of garlic and ginger not only enhances the flavor but also offers numerous health benefits. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, while ginger can aid digestion and reduce inflammation. Together, they contribute to a well-rounded meal that supports overall health.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks with Rice experience, consider adding a side of steamed vegetables. Broccoli, snap peas, or a colorful medley of bell peppers will add both nutrition and visual appeal to your plate. Not only do these vegetables provide additional vitamins and minerals, but they also add a fresh crunch that complements the tenderness of the chicken.

For those looking to enhance the dish further, garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds right before serving. This simple touch will not only make your meal visually stunning but will also add an extra layer of flavor that ties the dish together perfectly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

For the Chicken

  • 8 chicken drumsticks
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt to taste

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks with Rice:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Add chicken drumsticks and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.

Cook the Rice

In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add jasmine rice, butter, and salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until rice is fluffy and water is absorbed.

Bake the Chicken

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place marinated chicken drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and skin is crispy.

Serve

Serve the honey soy chicken drumsticks over the rice, drizzling any remaining marinade on top. Enjoy!

Your Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks with Rice is now ready to be served. Enjoy your meal!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, storing them properly is key for maintaining flavor and texture. Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, consider using the oven or an air fryer to help retain the crispy skin while ensuring the chicken warms evenly.

For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken drumsticks. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for about 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned before.

Pairing Drinks

Choosing the right beverage to accompany your Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks can enhance the dining experience. For a refreshing option, consider serving a cold glass of iced tea or lemonade. The acidity and sweetness of these drinks will complement the flavors of the chicken beautifully.

If you prefer a wine pairing, a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Riesling, can be ideal. These wines have a crispness that balances the sweetness of the honey and the savory notes of the soy sauce, making every bite and sip a delightful combination.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and may be even juicier!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day ahead and bake it when ready to serve.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad complement the flavors beautifully.

Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks with Rice

This Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks with Rice recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration40 minutes
Overall Time50 minutes

Created by: Anna

Recipe Type: Global Taste Adventures

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Chicken

  1. 8 chicken drumsticks
  2. 1/4 cup honey
  3. 1/4 cup soy sauce
  4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  5. 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  6. 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  7. Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

  1. 2 cups jasmine rice
  2. 4 cups water
  3. 1 tablespoon butter
  4. Salt to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Add chicken drumsticks and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.

Step 02

In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add jasmine rice, butter, and salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until rice is fluffy and water is absorbed.

Step 03

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place marinated chicken drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and skin is crispy.

Step 04

Serve the honey soy chicken drumsticks over the rice, drizzling any remaining marinade on top. Enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Total Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 46g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 12g
  • Protein: 25g