🍯 Honey Molasses Chicken Drumsticks

These **Honey Molasses Chicken Drumsticks** are tender, juicy, and coated in a rich, sticky glaze that's the perfect balance of sweet honey and deep, caramel-like molasses. Baked until golden and finger-licking good — a family favorite that’s easy to make and full of flavor!

Ingredients

• 8–10 chicken drumsticks (about 2–2.5 lbs)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup molasses (not blackstrap)
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing pan)

Instructions

1. Prep: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil a baking sheet or line with foil.
2. Make glaze: In a bowl, whisk together honey, molasses, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Prep chicken: Pat drumsticks dry with paper towels. Arrange on the baking sheet.
4. Bake 20 minutes: Roast drumsticks for 20 minutes to start crisping the skin.
5. Glaze: Brush drumsticks generously with half the glaze. Return to oven for 10 minutes.
6. Glaze again: Flip drumsticks, brush with remaining glaze, and bake 10–15 more minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F and glaze is glossy and caramelized.
7. Serve: Let rest 5 minutes. Serve warm with roasted veggies, rice, or a crisp salad.

Tip: For extra crispiness, broil 1–2 minutes at the end (watch closely!). You can also use this glaze on chicken wings or thighs.

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