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Crispy Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks

crispy honey mustard baked chicken drumsticks - featured image

This recipe delivers crispy, sticky, and flavorful baked chicken drumsticks with a perfectly balanced honey mustard glaze. Easy to prepare and ideal for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken drumsticks, skin-on and bone-in
  • 1/4 cup (85g) honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A few sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if available.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, and olive oil until smooth.
  3. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat well.
  4. Arrange the drumsticks on the wire rack in a single layer with space between each piece.
  5. Bake the drumsticks for 20 minutes to start crisping the skin and cooking the meat.
  6. Remove the drumsticks and brush the honey mustard glaze evenly over each piece. Add fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs if using.
  7. Return the tray to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until cooked through and glaze is caramelized. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Optional: Broil the drumsticks for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra crispy skin, watching closely to avoid burning.
  9. Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before seasoning for crispier skin. Use a wire rack for even heat circulation and crispiness. Brush glaze halfway through baking to avoid burning sugars. Rest chicken before serving to keep it juicy. Broil briefly at the end for extra crispiness if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken drumsticks, honey mustard chicken, baked chicken, crispy chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal, gluten-free, dairy-free