These Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks are a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that coats the chicken beautifully. Serve these drumsticks with rice, vegetables, or your favorite side dish for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 8-10 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear Chicken: Add the chicken drumsticks to the skillet. Sear them on all sides until they are golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sriracha sauce (if using). Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the sauce and stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken in the Sauce
- Return Chicken: Return the seared chicken drumsticks to the skillet, turning them to coat with the sauce.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Turn the drumsticks occasionally to ensure they are evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the drumsticks with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
- Serve: Serve the Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks hot, with your choice of side dishes such as steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Cooking Notes
- Marinating Option: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken drumsticks in the soy sauce, honey, and garlic mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha sauce to control the heat level. Omit it entirely if you prefer a milder dish.
- Baking Option: If you prefer baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the seared drumsticks in the oven for 20-25 minutes, basting with the sauce halfway through.
Variations
Low-Carb/Keto Version:
- Use a sugar-free honey substitute and a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum instead of cornstarch.
Gluten-Free Version:
- Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Vegan Version:
- Substitute the chicken with cauliflower or tofu, and use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey.
Tips for Perfect Drumsticks
- Dry Chicken: Patting the chicken dry helps achieve a better sear and crispy skin.
- Even Cooking: Turn the drumsticks occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the sauce.
- Resting Time: Let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that are sure to please everyone at the table. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. The sticky, flavorful glaze pairs perfectly with the tender chicken, making it a dish that will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal with your favorite sides and relish the compliments!
Enjoy your Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks!
