Are you ready to transform ordinary chicken drumsticks into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds? Our Sweet Lemon Glazed Drumsticks are not just a meal, they're a culinary experience that perfectly balances tangy, sweet, and savory flavors in every single bite. With a golden, crispy exterior and a succulent interior, these drumsticks are about to become your new go-to recipe for any occasion - from weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin and better glaze adherence.
- Season the drumsticks generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, making sure to coat each piece evenly.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together honey, fresh lemon juice, and soy sauce until well combined to create the glaze.
- Place the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to allow even cooking.
- Brush half of the lemon-honey glaze over the drumsticks, ensuring complete coverage.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, then remove and brush with the remaining glaze.
- Continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or lemon zest before serving.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry thoroughly - this is the secret to achieving that crispy, caramelized skin that everyone loves.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the most vibrant flavor. Bottled juice just can't compare to the brightness of freshly squeezed lemons.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Leaving space between drumsticks ensures even cooking and helps the skin get perfectly crisp.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken should always reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze if you enjoy a slight kick of heat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 235kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 21g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 80mg
