Sticky Honey Sesame Drumsticks

Chicken dishes have always been a favorite at my house and these sticky honey sesame drumsticks are no exception. My husband and kids ate these drumsticks very quickly. They are irresistibly delicious and so easy to make as well. It is an ideal dish to make for weekday dinners especially if you are pressed for time. The outside meat is sticky and sweet while the inside remains moist and tender, making this dish popular not only with kids but also with adults. The marinate consists of honey, soy sauce, garlic, sesame seeds and sesame oil. After preparing the marinate, the chicken pieces are dipped in the mixture. Then, after coating the drumstick in the marinate, the chicken is simply baked in the oven for 25 mins. It does not get simpler than that! The result were sticky and succulent drumsticks that nobody could resist. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Drumsticks

To achieve the perfect drumsticks, it’s all about the marinating process. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour, but if you can, go for a longer soak, even overnight. This deeper infusion of flavors will make a noticeable difference. When baking, positioning the drumsticks on a wire rack set over a baking sheet can help ensure even cooking and allow the heat to circulate around the chicken. If you like a bit of char, switch on the broiler for the last few minutes of cooking. Keep an eye on them, as things can go from nicely browned to burnt pretty quickly. Another tip is to use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This not only ensures safety but also helps keep the meat juicy.

Serving Suggestions

These sticky honey sesame drumsticks can stand alone as a main dish, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them alongside steamed jasmine rice or a fragrant coconut rice for a lovely balance. A simple Asian slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing adds a crunchy contrast that complements the sweetness of the drumsticks. For a heartier meal, stir-fried vegetables tossed in soy sauce or a light sesame oil drizzle can round out the plate nicely. If you’re hosting a gathering, these drumsticks can also be served as an appetizer. Just cut them into smaller pieces and place them on a platter with toothpicks. A bowl of extra marinade on the side for dipping adds an extra layer of flavor.

Storage Instructions and Variations

If you happen to have leftovers, store the drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until heated through. If you want to get a bit creative, consider variations on the marinade. Adding some Sriracha can introduce a lovely kick if you enjoy spicy flavors. For a citrus twist, incorporate some orange or lime juice into the marinade. You can also experiment with different types of honey, like clover or wildflower, to see how the flavor changes. If you prefer grilling over baking, these drumsticks can be cooked on a barbecue for a smoky flavor, just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of honey?

Maple syrup is a great alternative if you’re looking for a different sweetener. You could also try agave nectar, but keep in mind it may change the flavor a bit.

How should I store the leftovers?

Once they’re cooled, store the drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for about 3 to 4 days.

Can I make these drumsticks ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and let it soak in those flavors. Just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with these drumsticks?

These drumsticks pair well with steamed veggies or a fresh salad for a lighter meal. You could also serve them with rice or quinoa to soak up that sticky sauce.

What is the best way to reheat the drumsticks?

Reheating them in the oven is the best way to keep them crispy. Just pop them in at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Sticky Honey Sesame Drumsticks

Liza A

Sweet and sticky honey sesame drumsticks are packed with flavor, thanks to garlic and soy sauce. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they’re a crowd-pleaser!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 5 Servings

Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1/4 cup 60 mL liquid honey
• 2 tbsp 30 mL sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp 30 mL sesame oil
• 2 tbsp 30 mL sodium-reduced soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 2 lb 907 g chicken drumsticks (10 drumsticks)

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 400°F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In large bowl, whisk together honey, sesame seeds, sesame oil, soy sauce and garlic.
• Pat drumsticks dry with paper towel. Add to the honey sauce and stir to coat. Arrange on prepared baking sheet.
• Bake in oven, turning occasionally, until juices run clear when thickest part of chicken is pierced, about 25 minutes.
• Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Recipe source: Canadian Living

Nutrition

Calories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 30gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8g

Keyword comfort food, drumsticks, easy dinner, honey sesame, sticky chicken

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Check out some of my other Asian inspired chicken dishes.

Orange Chicken

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Honey Chicken

Chicken Karaage

Honeyed Chicken Teriyaki

Lemon Chicken