π― 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 β a family favorite thatβs easy to make and full of flavor!
Ingredients
- 8β10 chicken drumsticks (about 2β2.5 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
- Prep: Preheat oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C). Lightly oil a baking sheet or line with foil.
- 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.
- Prep chicken: Pat drumsticks dry with paper towels. Arrange on the baking sheet.
- Bake 20 minutes: Roast drumsticks for 20 minutes to start crisping the skin.
- Glaze: Brush drumsticks generously with half the glaze. Return to oven for 10 minutes.
- Glaze again: Flip drumsticks, brush with remaining glaze, and bake 10β15 more minutes until internal temperature reaches 165Β°F and glaze is glossy and caramelized.
- Serve: Let rest 5 minutes. Serve warm with roasted veggies, rice, or a crisp salad.
Tip: For extra crispiness, broil 1β2 minutes at the end (watch closely!). You can also use this glaze on chicken wings or thighs.
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