Name: Honey Garlic Baked Chicken: 8 Reasons You'll Love It
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 chicken drumsticks; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon rice vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; Salt and pepper to taste

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Honey Garlic Baked Chicken is a delightful weeknight meal that brings a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. These drumsticks are sticky, sweet, and incredibly flavorful, making them an absolute favorite. If you’re looking for a simple and delicious recipe that the whole family will love, this is it! With just a few ingredients, you can prepare a delightful dish that’s both satisfying and healthy. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Baked Chicken

This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers several benefits. First, it’s a healthy honey garlic chicken option, perfect for those mindful of their diet. Additionally, the baked honey garlic chicken is an excellent choice for busy weeknights, taking just 50 minutes from prep to table. The blend of honey and garlic provides a rich flavor profile that pairs beautifully with various sides. Plus, this recipe is gluten-free, making it accessible for those with dietary restrictions. You can easily adapt it to include vegetables for a complete meal. It’s a one-pan honey garlic chicken recipe that simplifies cleanup!

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Ingredients for Honey Garlic Baked Chicken

Gather these items:

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

How to Make Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, rice vinegar, and ground ginger.
Step 3: Season the chicken drumsticks with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Place the drumsticks in a baking dish.
Step 5: Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure to coat them evenly.
Step 6: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. Baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through.
Step 7: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Honey Garlic Baked Chicken

Keep these in mind:

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey garlic mixture for a few hours before baking.
Using honey garlic chicken thighs instead of drumsticks can yield even juicier results.
Always check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Best Ways to Serve Honey Garlic Baked Chicken

There are many delicious ways to serve this dish. Pair it with steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans for a healthy touch. You can also serve it over rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a family-friendly meal, consider serving with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. This easy honey garlic chicken can be the star of your dinner table!

How to Store and Reheat Honey Garlic Baked Chicken

This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This makes it a great option for honey garlic chicken for meal prep as well!

Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Garlic Baked Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Honey Garlic Baked Chicken?

The secret lies in the marinade! Ensure you let the chicken soak in the honey garlic mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, making your honey garlic chicken recipe incredibly flavorful.

Can I make Honey Garlic Baked Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and marinate it a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to cook. It’s perfect for busy weeknights!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Honey Garlic Baked Chicken?

One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. Always check for doneness and let it rest after baking; this helps the juices redistribute, making your oven-baked honey garlic chicken tender and juicy.

Variations of Honey Garlic Baked Chicken You Can Try

Feel free to experiment! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the baking dish for a complete meal. Consider using different cuts, such as honey garlic chicken wings, for a fun twist. You can also try a spicy version by adding crushed red pepper or sriracha to the marinade for a kick. This healthy honey garlic chicken is versatile and allows for creativity!

For more chicken recipes, check out Crockpot Butter Chicken or Cheesy Chicken Noodle Soup. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, Apple Snickerdoodles are a great option!