Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks with Rice

Name: Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks with Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 chicken drumsticks; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional); 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish); 2 cups jasmine rice; 4 cups water; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Meal Recipes

Deliciously sticky and savory, these Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks paired with fluffy rice make for a fantastic meal any night of the week.

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2025-12-16T22:12:18.161Z

This Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks recipe is a family favorite that brings together sweet and savory flavors. The chicken is marinated in a delicious honey soy sauce, then baked to perfection, resulting in juicy, tender meat that falls off the bone. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all the delicious sauce!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sticky, sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully
Juicy chicken drumsticks that are full of flavor
Easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks with Rice is not just a weeknight dinner; it's a versatile dish that fits any occasion. Whether you're hosting a casual gathering, celebrating a special moment, or simply enjoying a cozy family meal, these drumsticks are sure to impress. The sweet and savory glaze creates a delightful flavor that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

The dish pairs beautifully with various sides, making it adaptable for different tastes. Consider adding steamed broccoli, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to elevate your meal further. This recipe has all the elements to be your go-to choice for any dinner table.

Flavorful Marinade Secrets

The key to the irresistible taste of these Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks lies in the marinade. Combining honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger results in a rich, sticky glaze that not only flavors the chicken but also helps to tenderize it. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes—or longer—will intensify the flavors, creating a juicy and satisfying bite with every piece.

Feel free to experiment with the marinade by adding your favorite spices or herbs. A pinch of chili flakes can introduce a delightful kick, while fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can add a refreshing touch. The possibilities are endless, and this flexibility allows you to make this dish your own.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can achieve delicious results. The chicken drumsticks require minimal hands-on time, allowing you to focus on other tasks while they bake in the oven.

Additionally, cooking the rice simultaneously saves time and ensures that everything is ready to serve at once. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

8 chicken drumsticks
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

For the Rice

2 cups jasmine rice
4 cups water
Salt to taste

Make sure to prepare your ingredients before starting the cooking process for an easier experience!

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken drumsticks and coat them well in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Bake the Drumsticks

Place the marinated chicken drumsticks on the baking tray, reserving the marinade. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, then brush with the reserved marinade and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and caramelized.

Cook the Rice

While the chicken is baking, rinse the jasmine rice under cold water. In a saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.

Serve

Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the drumsticks over a bed of rice, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Enjoy your delicious Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks with Rice!

Storage and Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is easy! Allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best results, or use a microwave if you're short on time. The flavors will continue to develop, making for delicious leftovers that can be enjoyed in various ways.

Consider shredding the leftover chicken and using it in sandwiches, salads, or wraps for a quick lunch option. The sticky glaze will keep it moist and flavorful, ensuring you won’t be disappointed with your meal prep.

Making it a Family Affair

Cooking together can be a wonderful way to bond with family. Get the kids involved by letting them help with the marinating process or garnishing the finished dish. Teaching them about cooking not only builds their skills but also creates lasting memories in the kitchen.

Involving everyone in the preparation can make mealtime more enjoyable. You can also create a fun family tradition by trying different variations of this recipe, such as using different types of proteins or experimenting with the marinade flavors. This way, every dinner can be a new adventure!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, chicken thighs work well with this marinade and will be just as delicious!

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.