Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks with Rice

Name: Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks with Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 chicken drumsticks; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups jasmine rice; 4 cups water; 1 tablespoon butter; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Family Favorite Comfort Food

Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and savory with these Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks served on a bed of fluffy rice.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-16T21:42:18.339Z

This recipe for Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks with Rice is a family favorite. The blend of honey and soy sauce creates a savory glaze that perfectly complements the juicy chicken. Serve it with rice to soak up the delicious sauce!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory glaze that enhances the flavor of the chicken
Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners
Comforting rice that complements the dish beautifully

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks bring together the delightful sweetness of honey and the umami richness of soy sauce. This perfect balance creates a glaze that not only enhances the natural flavor of the chicken but also makes every bite a delicious experience. The aromatic garlic and ginger add depth, making the dish even more enticing and layered in flavor.

Marinating the chicken in this flavorful mixture allows the meat to absorb all the delicious notes, resulting in tender, juicy drumsticks that are bursting with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant taste and fragrant aroma.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you can have a hearty meal ready on the table in no time. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

The marinating process can be done ahead of time, allowing you to pop the chicken in the fridge while you go about your day. When you’re ready to eat, just bake it in the oven and prepare the rice. In under an hour, you’ll have a delicious, home-cooked meal that the whole family will love!

A Comforting Side of Rice

Serving the Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice elevates the meal to a whole new level of comfort. Jasmine rice, with its fragrant aroma and slightly sticky texture, is perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices from the chicken. This makes every bite satisfying and delicious.

Cooking rice is a straightforward process that complements the chicken beautifully. The addition of butter and a pinch of salt enhances the rice's natural flavor, creating a comforting side that balances the sweet and savory notes of the chicken. It's a pairing that is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

For the Chicken

8 chicken drumsticks
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

2 cups jasmine rice
4 cups water
1 tablespoon butter
Salt to taste

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor!

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Add chicken drumsticks and coat well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Rice

In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add jasmine rice, butter, and salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked and water is absorbed.

Bake the Chicken

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place marinated chicken drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, basting with remaining marinade halfway through.

Serve

Once the chicken is cooked and golden brown, remove from the oven. Serve hot over a bed of rice. Enjoy!

Feel free to garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added flavor!

Tips for the Best Results

For the most flavorful chicken, consider marinating the drumsticks overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat, resulting in a more delicious outcome. Additionally, using fresh garlic and ginger will provide a brighter taste compared to their powdered counterparts.

If you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the marinade. This will give your chicken a spicy kick, making it even more exciting. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey based on your taste preferences.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken moist, it’s best to reheat it in the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the chicken for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.

You can also freeze the marinated chicken drumsticks before cooking. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed for a quick meal.

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal more vibrant, consider serving the Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or snap peas. This adds not only color but also nutrition to your dish, making it well-rounded and satisfying.

For a twist, try pairing the chicken with a fresh salad or coleslaw. The crunchiness of the salad will complement the tender chicken and fluffy rice, providing a delightful contrast in textures. You can also garnish the dish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used as a substitute. Adjust cooking time as necessary.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

You can substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, using the same marinade.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

→ What side dishes pair well with this meal?

Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad complement the dish nicely.