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There's something undeniably magical about the aroma of chicken drumsticks baking in the oven. As a child, my family's kitchen would fill with the sweet and savory scent of soy sauce and honey wafting through the air. It was a sign that my mom was preparing her famous sticky drumsticks—one of those recipes that always brought us together around the dinner table. Whether it was a casual family weeknight or a special gathering, these Sticky Sweet Baked Drumsticks were a staple that everyone looked forward to. Today, I want to share this cherished recipe with you, along with some tips and tricks to make it your own. Let’s dive into the world of Sticky Sweet Baked Drumsticks, where every bite is a delightful experience!

Sticky Sweet Baked Drumsticks

Discover the joy of Sticky Sweet Baked Drumsticks, a delicious family favorite that combines sweet and savory flavors. These easy-to-make drumsticks are marinated in a delightful mixture of honey, soy sauce, and spices, resulting in a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to bring everyone together around the dinner table. Dive into the recipe and enjoy a culinary experience that captures the essence of home cooking.
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Ingredients
  

10 chicken drumsticks

1/3 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

2 tablespoons garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)

Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended and the sugar has dissolved.

    Marinate the Drumsticks: Place the chicken drumsticks into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the drumsticks, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, though overnight marination is recommended for enhanced flavor.

      Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C) to ensure it's hot when the chicken is ready to bake.

        Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. This setup allows hot air to circulate around the drumsticks, promoting even cooking and crispiness.

          Arrange the Drumsticks: Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer on the wire rack, spacing them out to facilitate even cooking.

            Bake the Chicken: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the drumsticks for 35-45 minutes, basting them with the reserved marinade every 15 minutes. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the skin is beautifully caramelized and sticky.

              Finish and Serve: Once baked, remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute. Before serving, sprinkle the drumsticks with chopped green onions and a generous amount of sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.

                Enjoy: Serve these sticky sweet drumsticks warm, accompanied by steamed rice or a refreshing vegetable salad for a well-rounded meal!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 4