Spicy Honey Garlic Baked Drumsticks offer a mouthwatering combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors with perfectly caramelized skin and tender, juicy meat. Baked to perfection, these drumsticks are ideal for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. The sticky garlic glaze, accented by sriracha and a touch of smoked paprika, makes each bite bold and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare yet delivers bold, complex flavors with minimal effort. The marinade doubles as a glaze, intensifying the flavor while giving the drumsticks a glossy, caramelized finish. It’s oven-baked, not fried, which means less mess and fewer calories without compromising on taste. The optional sriracha lets you control the heat, making it customizable for everyone at the table.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken drumsticks
soy sauce
honey
olive oil
apple cider vinegar
sriracha (optional)
garlic, minced
ground black pepper
smoked paprika
cornstarch + water (for slurry)
fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
sesame seeds (optional)

directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with foil and lightly grease it.
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, olive oil, vinegar, sriracha (if using), garlic, black pepper, and paprika.
Place drumsticks in a large ziplock bag or bowl. Add marinade, toss to coat, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, up to 8 hours.
Arrange drumsticks on the prepared tray, reserving the excess marinade. Bake for 25 minutes.
Meanwhile, transfer reserved marinade to a saucepan and bring to a simmer. Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then stir into the sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until thickened.
After 25 minutes, brush thickened sauce over the drumsticks. Flip and brush the other side. Bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is caramelized.
For a crispier top, broil the drumsticks for 2–3 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories: approximately 320 kcal per serving

Variations

Less Spicy: Omit or reduce sriracha for a milder flavor.
Extra Sticky: Double the sauce and baste more frequently during baking.
Add Citrus: Add orange or lime zest to the marinade for a citrusy twist.
Use Wings or Thighs: Substitute drumsticks with chicken wings or boneless thighs.
Grilled Version: Grill the marinated drumsticks over medium heat, basting with sauce as they cook.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through. The glaze may be refreshed by brushing on a bit of reserved or reheated sauce before serving.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless thighs or breasts work well, though they may require less cooking time.

Is marinating necessary?

Marinating enhances flavor, but if short on time, you can coat the drumsticks just before baking and still achieve good results.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, freeze cooked drumsticks in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with these drumsticks?

They pair well with rice, roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.

Can I use regular paprika?

Yes, though smoked paprika adds more depth to the flavor.

How spicy is this recipe?

With sriracha, it’s moderately spicy. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

You can use arrowroot powder or flour to thicken the sauce.

Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?

Maple syrup or brown sugar can be used, though the flavor will vary slightly.

Why brush the sauce midway through baking?

Brushing thickened sauce adds a glossy finish and intensifies the flavor as the glaze caramelizes.

Conclusion

Spicy Honey Garlic Baked Drumsticks are a flavor-packed, family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. The savory-sweet glaze with a touch of heat caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a mouthwatering finish. Whether you’re serving them at a casual dinner or a game-day gathering, these drumsticks are guaranteed to be a hit.