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Sticky Soy Chicken Drumsticks

Sticky Soy Chicken Drumsticks

Sticky soy chicken drumsticks baked in the oven with a glossy soy, garlic, ginger, and honey glaze. A simple, flavour-packed chicken dinner for weeknights, family meals, or casual entertaining.
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Temps de préparation 15 minutes
Temps de cuisson 50 minutes
Catégorie Main Dish
Cuisine Asian-inspired, North American home cooking
Portions 5
Calories 360 kcal

Ingrédients
  

  • 10 chicken drumsticks
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 3 garlic cloves finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds optional
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced, optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a rack on top if available.
  • Pat the chicken drumsticks dry. Toss with vegetable oil, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  • In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and ketchup. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Mix cornstarch with water, then whisk into the sauce. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly thickened.
  • Brush the drumsticks with a thin layer of glaze and bake for 20 minutes.
  • Turn the drumsticks, brush with more glaze, and bake for 15 minutes.
  • Brush again and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches at least 165°F internally.
  • Broil for 1 to 3 minutes if desired for a stickier finish.
  • Rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Notes

FAQ

Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?

Yes. You can toss the drumsticks with half of the cooled glaze and marinate them for 1 to 8 hours in the fridge. Keep the other half of the glaze separate for brushing during baking.

Can I make this recipe without marinating?

Yes. The recipe works well without a long marinade because the glaze is brushed on in layers. This makes it practical for a weeknight dinner.

How do I know when chicken drumsticks are done?

Use a meat thermometer. The minimum safe internal temperature is 165°F, but drumsticks are often more tender when cooked to around 175°F to 185°F.

Can I make these drumsticks in the air fryer?

Yes, but cook in batches so the air can circulate. Air fry at 380°F for about 22 to 28 minutes, turning halfway, then brush with glaze near the end so it does not burn too early. For another air fryer chicken idea, try air fryer chicken wings.

Can I use this glaze on chicken breast?

Yes, but chicken breast cooks faster and can dry out. If you want a chicken breast method, use the same glaze but watch the temperature closely. You can also use my juicy air fryer chicken breast as a timing reference.

Can I make the sauce spicier?

Yes. Add sriracha, chili flakes, gochujang, or a little homemade harissa paste to the glaze.

How long do leftovers keep?

Leftover sticky soy drumsticks keep for about 3 days in the fridge in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.
Mots clés Chicken, drumsticks, oven-baked