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Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

These honey soy baked chicken drumsticks are a simple yet bold dinner option. The marinade of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger infuses deep flavor while keeping the chicken moist and tender. Basting during baking ensures a glossy caramelized finish. Garnish with sesame seeds and scallions and serve with coconut rice for a complete meal. They also work great with chicken thighs or breasts and can be made in a slow cooker or oven. This is a weeknight staple with impressive results and minimal effort.

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Published By Sophie
Updated on Sun, 27 Jul 2025 19:44:33 GMT
A plate of baked chicken drumsticks with a honey and soy sauce glaze. Bookmark
A plate of baked chicken drumsticks with a honey and soy sauce glaze. | ioanacooks.com

These oven baked chicken drumsticks have become one of my go to weeknight dinners when I want something easy yet packed with flavor. The honey soy garlic marinade transforms simple ingredients into something sticky savory and totally irresistible. Whether you are cooking for kids or adults this dish is always a winner.

I started making this when I needed something different from my usual stir fry routine and now it is a family favorite that never fails.

Ingredients

  • Chicken drumsticks: Essential for juicy dark meat that stays moist even after baking
  • Honey: Adds a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the oven
  • Low sodium soy sauce: Provides that salty umami kick without overpowering
  • Sesame oil: A little goes a long way to give deep nutty flavor
  • Garlic: Use fresh for the most punch and aroma
  • Ginger: Choose firm bright ginger and mince it finely for even flavor
  • Salt and pepper: Essential for balance and bringing out the other ingredients
  • Toasted sesame seeds: Optional but they add great texture and visual contrast
  • Scallions: Freshness and a mild bite that complements the sweet sauce
  • Pineapple coconut rice: Optional pairing that enhances the tropical notes in the sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl stir together honey soy sauce sesame oil minced garlic ginger salt and pepper until well combined. This forms the base of your flavor and works best when made fresh.
Marinate the Chicken:
Place drumsticks in a large Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over them. Press out excess air and seal. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or ideally overnight. This allows the chicken to absorb flavor deeply.
Preheat the Oven:
Heat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature helps achieve a caramelized surface without drying out the meat.
Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer with space between.
Bake and Baste:
Bake for 35 minutes total basting every 10 minutes with the reserved marinade. This builds flavor in layers and gives a glossy finish. Chicken is ready when it hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit inside.
Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and diced scallions. Serve with your favorite side like pineapple coconut rice to complete the dish.
A bowl of baked chicken drumsticks with honey and soy sauce. Bookmark
A bowl of baked chicken drumsticks with honey and soy sauce. | ioanacooks.com

Storage Tips

Cool the chicken completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot throughout. Always thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight for best texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Boneless chicken thighs or breasts can replace drumsticks. Thighs need about 22 to 25 minutes while breasts should be baked for 16 to 18 minutes. For more spice stir in a bit of chili sauce to the marinade. You can also try this sauce with shrimp or pork chops.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over coconut pineapple rice for a sweet contrast or try steamed broccoli or a crisp salad on the side. Leftovers are great chopped into fried rice or wrapped in lettuce for a low carb lunch.

A plate of baked chicken drumsticks with honey and soy sauce. Bookmark
A plate of baked chicken drumsticks with honey and soy sauce. | ioanacooks.com

Cultural Context

This dish draws inspiration from Asian flavors particularly the balance of sweet and savory found in Japanese and Korean cooking. The use of soy sauce garlic and ginger reflects traditional marinades while the honey adds a modern twist that suits Western palates.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best flavor, marinate the drumsticks for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use boneless chicken instead?

Yes, boneless thighs or breasts work well. Adjust cooking times and baste to keep the meat juicy.

→ What is the best side dish to serve?

Pineapple coconut rice pairs wonderfully with the sweet and savory flavors of the drumsticks.

→ Can I cook these in the slow cooker?

Yes, place marinated chicken and sauce in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Broil at the end for char.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

→ Do I need to discard the marinade?

No, save the marinade and use it to baste the chicken while it bakes for extra flavor and moisture.

Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks

Juicy baked drumsticks glazed in honey soy marinade ideal for fast dinners

Time Needed to Prep
10 minutes
Cooking Duration
35 minutes
Overall Time
45 minutes
Published By: Sophie

Category of Recipe: Main Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Easy to Make

Type of Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Number of Portions: 5 How Many It Serves (10 chicken drumsticks)

Dietary Preferences: Dairy-Free Suitable

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Main Ingredients

Ingredient 01 1/4 cup honey
Ingredient 02 6 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
Ingredient 03 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Ingredient 04 4 cloves garlic, minced
Ingredient 05 1 tablespoon minced ginger
Ingredient 06 Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredient 07 10 chicken drumsticks
Ingredient 08 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
Ingredient 09 2 scallions, diced
Ingredient 10 Pineapple Coconut Rice, for serving

Steps to Follow

Step 01

In a small bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 02

Season drumsticks with salt and pepper and place them in a Ziploc bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Step 03

Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius).

Step 04

Arrange marinated drumsticks on a foil- or parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 35 minutes, basting every 10 minutes with the reserved marinade, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 05

Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and diced scallions. Serve with Pineapple Coconut Rice.

Extra Tips

  1. Do not skip the marinating step; it ensures deep flavor and tender meat.
  2. Line your baking sheet with foil or parchment to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  3. A dash of chili sauce can be added to the marinade for extra heat.
  4. Leftovers should be cooled completely before storing in an airtight container.
  5. For added char, finish the drumsticks under the broiler for 2–3 minutes after baking.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking sheet
  • Ziploc bag
  • Mixing bowl
  • Oven
  • Basting brush
  • Meat thermometer

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains soy
  • Contains sesame

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 318
  • Total Fat: 15 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 17 grams
  • Protein Amount: 28 grams