Baked Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that dazzles with both sweet and savory flavors, this Baked Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Each drumstick is marinated until succulent, then baked to golden, sticky perfection and finished with a luscious honey glaze. Whether you’re feeding a busy family on a weeknight or want a stunning dish for guests, this recipe delivers juicy texture and irresistible taste every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Baked Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe is how these wholesome, pantry-friendly ingredients come together for something truly special. Each element brings its own pop—whether it’s the richness of honey, tangy Dijon, or that fiery hint of ginger, every bite is layered with flavor.

• Chicken drumsticks: You want about 5 pounds—these stay extra-juicy and take on the marinade beautifully.
• Honey: The star of the glaze, honey adds sweetness and a crave-able sticky finish.
• Soy sauce: Opt for low sodium if you like, but this gives the chicken depth and that irresistible umami kick.
• Orange juice: Brings brightness and subtle acidity to balance the sweet and savory notes.
• Dijon mustard: Adds gentle heat and a smooth tang, rounding out the glaze’s flavors.
• Fresh garlic: Use large cloves, grated or minced—a little goes a long way for aroma and punch.
• Fresh ginger: Essential for that warm, spicy sparkle; finely grate it for best flavor distribution.
• Sesame seeds and chives (optional): For a final sprinkle of color, crunch, and an herby vibe that makes the dish pop!

How to Make Baked Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Together the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk honey, soy sauce, orange juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and grated ginger until completely smooth. You’ll notice the mixture is glossy and aromatic—this is where all that flavor magic starts. Be sure to set aside about 2/3 cup of this marinade, and pop it in the fridge for later. This reserved portion becomes the drizzle that takes your Baked Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe straight over the top!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken drumsticks into a large zip-top bag or container, and pour the remaining marinade over the top. Try to coat every drumstick well—then seal the bag tightly, pressing out as much air as possible. For that deep, lip-smacking flavor, leave the bag in the fridge for at least 6 hours or, even better, overnight. Give the bag a gentle turn now and then to ensure every piece gets maximum marinating time. Your patience will be rewarded!

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) with the rack centered. Line a rimmed baking sheet or a roomy roasting pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange each marinated drumstick skin-side up so they’re not crowded—this lets them brown up evenly. Spoon just enough marinade into the pan to coat the bottom for moisture, but toss out any extra marinade left in the bag. Bake for 25 minutes, then flip the drumsticks skin-side down and bake another 20 minutes for extra tenderness.

Step 4: Crisp and Broil

For that irresistible, caramelized finish, take the pan out and flip the drumsticks skin-side up once more. Pop them under a high broiler for about 3-4 minutes, keeping a watchful eye—this step gives the Baked Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe its signature glossy, crackly skin. Watch as the glaze bubbles and blisters for irresistible, sticky results!

Step 5: Simmer the Glaze

While the chicken bakes, it’s time for that finishing touch: the glaze! Pour the reserved 2/3 cup marinade into a small saucepan and bring it up to a boil. Turn the heat down and let it gently simmer for about 7 minutes, until thickened to a syrupy, shiny consistency. This is gold in a pan and adds an extra layer of flavor to each bite.

Step 6: Glaze and Garnish

Once your chicken is juicy and crisped, brush the thickened glaze generously over every drumstick. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and a scattering of fresh chopped chives for that final touch of freshness, color, and crunch. Now your Baked Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe looks straight out of a restaurant!

How to Serve Baked Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

This dish loves a little flourish! I always reach for a shower of sesame seeds and a handful of finely snipped chives. The sesame delivers a nutty note, while the chives add a pop of vibrant green and fresh flavor. If you’re feeling bold, try a few curls of orange zest or a scattering of sliced scallions for even more color.

Side Dishes

Serve your Baked Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe alongside fluffy steamed jasmine rice, garlicky sautéed greens, or a crisp cucumber salad for perfect balance. I’m also a fan of simple roasted broccoli, or a colorful medley of stir-fried veggies—each one soaks up that luscious glaze left behind on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, pile drumsticks on a rustic wooden board with bowls of glazed veggies and rice, family-style. Or for parties, slice the meat off the bone and serve inside lettuce wraps with a dollop of glaze and a sprinkle of herbs—DIY style! Individual platings can look dazzling with a little glaze swoosh and a bright veggie side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? No worries—the Baked Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe stays moist even after chilling. Store cooled drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors continue to meld and deepen, making these next-day bites just as crave-worthy as the originals.

Freezing

If you want to make this recipe ahead, just pop the cooled, glazed chicken into a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture and taste.

Reheating

To bring that irresistible shine and tenderness back, place leftovers on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and heat in a 350°F oven until warmed through (about 15 minutes). For extra crispy skin, uncover for the last 3-4 minutes. You can also microwave, but I promise the oven makes a world of difference!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs or breasts instead of drumsticks?

Absolutely! Thighs will stay just as moist as drumsticks, soaking up that flavorful marinade perfectly. If you use breasts, just watch the cooking time as they can dry out more easily—check for doneness earlier than you would with dark meat.

Is it okay to marinate for less than 6 hours?

While overnight marination is ideal for the Baked Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe, even 2-3 hours will infuse plenty of flavor. If you’re in a hurry, allow the chicken to sit at least one hour at room temp, flipping once or twice for best results.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap regular soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go!

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?

Definitely! Grill over medium heat, turning occasionally and basting with the reserved glaze until the chicken is fully cooked and caramelized. Just be mindful of flare-ups from the sweet glaze.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The juices should run clear when pierced at the bone, and the internal temperature should register at least 165°F for safe enjoyment. If you’re not sure, a quick poke with a meat thermometer will give you peace of mind every time.

Final Thoughts

The first bite of this Baked Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe is always a little celebration—sticky, savory, and joyfully simple. I hope you’ll make this dish your own and share it with people you love. Trust me, once you see those empty plates, you’ll want to make it again and again!

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