Why Make This Recipe
Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Fresh Cucumber Salad is a fantastic choice for many reasons. First, the combination of sweet and savory flavors in the marinade makes the chicken incredibly tasty and satisfying. Second, it’s a straightforward recipe, perfect for weeknights or gatherings. Lastly, you get a refreshing cucumber salad on the side, which balances the rich flavors of the chicken and adds a healthy touch to your meal.
How to Make Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Fresh Cucumber Salad
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Drumsticks:
- 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 lb / 900 g)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (30 ml)
- ¼ cup honey (85 g)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (45 ml)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (15 ml)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (3 g)
- ½ tsp black pepper (1 g)
- 1 tsp salt (5 g)
For the Fresh Cucumber Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (400 g)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (150 g)
- ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced (25 g)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (10 g)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (30 ml)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (15 ml)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Directions:
Prepare the Drumsticks: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp and brown nicely. Place them in a large bowl.
Make the Honey Garlic Marinade: In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. The mixture should be thick, aromatic, and sweet with a touch of tanginess.
Coat the Chicken: Pour the marinade over the drumsticks and toss until they are evenly coated. Let them sit for 10 minutes to soak in the flavors (this step is optional but recommended for better taste).
Bake the Drumsticks: Place the drumsticks on a foil-lined baking sheet, spacing them out. Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The glaze will thicken and caramelize. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Prepare the Cucumber Salad: As the chicken cooks, slice the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, and chop the parsley. Add everything to a large bowl. The colors and textures will contrast nicely with the chicken.
Make the Salad Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour this dressing over the salad and toss gently. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Serve the Dish: Plate the baked drumsticks and drizzle any leftover pan glaze on top. Serve alongside a generous portion of the fresh cucumber salad for a complete, balanced meal.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Fresh Cucumber Salad
Serve the drumsticks hot from the oven, ensuring to include some of the delicious glaze for extra flavor. The fresh cucumber salad should be served cold on the side, offering a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the chicken. This meal is great for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or meal prep for the week.
How to Store Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Fresh Cucumber Salad
Store any leftover chicken drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving. The cucumber salad is best eaten fresh but can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain the salad’s crunch.
Tips to Make Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Drumsticks with Fresh Cucumber Salad
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the fridge.
- If you like it spicy, add some red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- You can substitute chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Variation
You can change up the salad by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. You might also swap out the honey for maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking for even cooking.
2. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even some crusty bread to soak up the delicious glaze.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time. Just be sure to keep the salad dressing separate until you are ready to serve.
