Sweet, sticky, and irresistibly savory, these Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Drumsticks deliver bold flavor with very little effort. Each drumstick comes out with crispy skin, juicy meat, and a glossy, caramelized glaze that clings to every bite. Inspired by classic takeout flavors—but lighter and oven-baked—this recipe is a reliable weeknight favorite that’s impressive enough to serve guests.
The best part? You only need one bowl, one pan, and about 45 minutes. As the chicken roasts, your kitchen fills with the mouthwatering aroma of honey, garlic, and perfectly seasoned chicken.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
🍯 Sweet and garlicky homemade glaze—no bottled sauce
🥣 One bowl, one pan for easy cleanup
⏱️ Ready in under an hour with minimal hands-on time
💸 Budget-friendly—feeds 4–6 people
🌿 Made with simple pantry staples
Perfect for busy weeknights, casual entertaining, or meal prep with a gourmet feel.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 4–6
For the Chicken
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8–10 chicken drumsticks (about 3–3½ lbs / 1.4–1.6 kg)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Honey Garlic Glaze
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½ cup honey (or pure maple syrup)
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¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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4–6 garlic cloves, minced
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2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon ketchup (adds depth and color)
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili flakes (optional)
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1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
Pro Tips
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Pat the drumsticks very dry for extra-crispy skin
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Don’t skip the vinegar—it balances the sweetness
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Fresh garlic makes a big difference in flavor
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