Description
This Honey Soy Baked Chicken Drumsticks recipe features tender, juicy chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, then baked to perfection with a sticky, caramelized glaze. Served with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and fresh scallions, it pairs beautifully with Pineapple Coconut Rice for a complete, delicious meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 1/4 cup honey
- 6 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Chicken
- 10 chicken drumsticks
Garnish
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 scallions, diced
To Serve
- Pineapple Coconut Rice (recipe not included)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, low-sodium soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and a pinch of salt and pepper to create a balanced, flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Season the chicken drumsticks lightly with salt and pepper. Place them into a large Ziploc bag and pour the prepared marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible, and refrigerate for at least two hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to fully heat, ensuring optimal cooking conditions for crispy, caramelized skin.
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Arrange the marinated chicken drumsticks evenly on the sheet.
- Bake the chicken: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the drumsticks for approximately 35 minutes. Every 10 minutes, baste the chicken with leftover marinade to keep them moist and enhance flavor. Continue until an internal thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a drumstick reads 165ºF (74ºC), ensuring food safety.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and diced scallions for a fresh, nutty touch. Serve alongside Pineapple Coconut Rice for a delightful, well-rounded meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight intensifies the flavors and tenderizes the meat.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can simmer the leftover marinade on the stove for a few minutes to reduce it before basting.
- Using low-sodium soy sauce helps control the saltiness, but adjust seasoning according to taste.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF for safety and juiciness.
- Pineapple Coconut Rice adds a sweet and creamy side that complements the savory chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian