There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a perfectly cooked chicken drumstick, especially when it’s infused with the sweet and savory flavors of honey and herbs. These Honey Herb Chicken Drumsticks are not only simple to prepare, but they also deliver a mouthwatering taste that will have your family and friends clamoring for seconds. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a weekend barbecue, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why It’s My Go-To
I love this recipe because it combines the ease of a weeknight meal with the flavors typically found in gourmet dishes. The sweetness of honey pairs beautifully with the savory notes of Italian seasoning, transforming basic chicken drumsticks into a scrumptious centerpiece. Plus, they’re baked to perfection, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the meal and less time at the stove. They are also incredibly versatile; serve them with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even on top of a bed of rice for a complete meal.
What You’ll Need
To create these delicious Honey Herb Chicken Drumsticks, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 to 4 lbs bone-in skin-on chicken drumsticks
- 2 Tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 2 Tbsp Italian seasoning*
- 1 Tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp sea salt to taste
- 2 to 3 Tbsp honey for serving
*Note: Italian seasoning can vary in flavor, so choose your preferred blend.
Before You Start: Equipment
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following equipment ready:
- Baking sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet will help catch any drippings.
- Mixing bowl: For combining your marinade ingredients.
- Meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection.
- Brush or spoon: For applying the honey glaze at the end.
Honey Herb Chicken Drumsticks: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve crispy skin on your drumsticks.
Step 2: Prepare the Drumsticks
Rinse the chicken drumsticks under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Drying the skin will help achieve that coveted crispness.
Step 3: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the avocado oil (or olive oil), Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and sea salt. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
Step 4: Coat the Drumsticks
Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until they are evenly coated. You can also use your hands to massage the marinade into the chicken for better flavor penetration.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the marinated drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Ensure they are spread out evenly and not overcrowded.
Step 6: Bake the Drumsticks
Bake the drumsticks in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Glaze with Honey
In the last five minutes of baking, drizzle the honey over the drumsticks, using a brush or spoon to ensure they are well coated. This will create a beautiful glossy finish.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve your Honey Herb Chicken Drumsticks warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors!
Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps
If you’re looking to create a vegan or vegetarian version of this recipe, consider the following swaps:
- Use tofu or seitan instead of chicken drumsticks.
- Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly sweetener.
- Use a plant-based oil like coconut oil or grapeseed oil for marinating.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
When making Honey Herb Chicken Drumsticks, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Overcooking: Keep an eye on the chicken to avoid dryness. Use a meat thermometer for accurate cooking times.
- Uneven cooking: If your drumsticks are not evenly sized, some may cook faster than others. Try to select drumsticks of similar sizes for consistent results.
- Sticky honey: If the honey glaze becomes too sticky, you can add a few drops of water to loosen it before drizzling.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
If you have leftovers (which you might not—these drumsticks are that good!), here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them:
- Storing: Place leftover drumsticks in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze drumsticks in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will keep the skin crispy.
Honey Herb Chicken Drumsticks Q&A
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
While bone-in drumsticks provide more flavor and moisture, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts. Just adjust the cooking time, as boneless pieces will cook faster.
What can I serve with these drumsticks?
These drumsticks pair wonderfully with a variety of sides such as Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs With Rice Pilaf, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight will enhance the flavors even more. Just make sure to keep it in the refrigerator.
How do I get extra crispy skin?
To achieve extra crispy skin, make sure the drumsticks are thoroughly dried before marinating, and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. You can also broil them for the last few minutes of cooking for an extra crunch.
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Save & Share
If you loved these Honey Herb Chicken Drumsticks, don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family! Cooking is always better when shared with loved ones. Enjoy the deliciousness, and happy cooking!
Honey Herb Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) for crispy skin.
- Step 2: Rinse the chicken drumsticks under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine avocado oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and sea salt. Mix to create a marinade.
- Step 4: Toss the drumsticks in the marinade until evenly coated.
- Step 5: Arrange the marinated drumsticks on a lined baking sheet.
- Step 6: Bake for 35-40 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Step 7: Drizzle honey over the drumsticks in the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Step 8: Let rest for a few minutes before serving warm.
Notes
- Marinate overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- For extra crispy skin, ensure drumsticks are dried well before marinating.
