If you’re on the lookout for a comforting, finger-licking dish that’s bold on flavor yet incredibly easy to prepare, this Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Juicy chicken drumsticks are lovingly coated in a luscious honey and mustard glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, delivering crispy skin with a perfect sweet-spicy punch. With simple pantry staples and minimal fuss, this recipe is perfect for any night of the week when you want something hearty and packed with soul. Let me walk you through how to make this dish shine in your kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in building the vibrant flavors and gorgeous texture that make this dish irresistible. Fresh herbs lift the aroma, honey brings natural sweetness, and the dual mustards add layers of tang and bite.
- Chicken drumsticks (8): Choose plump, skin-on pieces for the best balance of juicy meat and crispy skin.
- Honey (1/4 cup): Adds a natural sweetness that helps create that beautiful caramelized glaze.
- Dijon mustard (2 tbsp): Offers smooth, mildly spicy complexity to the sauce.
- Wholegrain mustard (1 tbsp): Brings texture and a slightly sharper tang, enhancing the flavor profile.
- Olive oil (2 tsp + 2 tbsp): Keeps the chicken moist and helps brown the potatoes and drumsticks evenly.
- Potatoes (4 medium-sized): Serve as a comforting, crispy side that soaks up the lovely glaze.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Infuses a fragrant depth that pairs marvelously with the honey and mustard.
- Cornflour/cornstarch (1 tsp): Helps thicken the sauce so it clings perfectly to the chicken.
- Salt and pepper (pinch): Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Fresh thyme or chopped parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color when garnishing the finished dish.
- Steamed broccolini: A vibrant, crisp veggie side to complement the rich chicken.
How to Make Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F). Wash and quarter the potatoes, then toss them in 2 tablespoons of olive oil with a pinch of salt and pepper to season. Spread them evenly on a large baking tray to roast alongside the chicken. The potatoes will become golden and crispy, perfect for soaking up any extra honey mustard glaze.
Step 2: Mix the Honey Mustard Glaze
In a bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of olive oil, Dijon mustard, wholegrain mustard, honey, the minced garlic clove, cornflour, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until you get a smooth, velvety glaze. The cornflour helps thicken the sauce so it sticks magnificently to the chicken while baking.
Step 3: Coat and Bake the Chicken Drumsticks
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels—this step is key for crispy skin. Add the drumsticks to the bowl with the honey mustard mixture and toss to coat evenly. Arrange the glazed drumsticks on the tray next to the potatoes, ensuring space so they roast rather than steam. Bake everything for about 60 minutes, turning the drumsticks and potatoes halfway through, until the chicken skin is golden and caramelized, and the potatoes are tender and crisp.
How to Serve Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Garnishes
Once the chicken drumsticks are beautifully baked, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley over the top. This simple touch brightens the rich flavors and adds an inviting, fresh aroma that will make your mouth water the moment you see it on the table.
Side Dishes
Steamed broccolini is an ideal side here, adding a fresh crunch and vibrant green contrast to the golden drumsticks and potatoes. You might also consider a light garden salad or roasted carrots for a colorful plate that balances hearty, sweet, and earthy elements perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get a little fancy, serve your drumsticks on a wooden board or a rustic platter alongside the roasted potatoes and broccolini. Drizzle any leftover honey mustard sauce over the top, or offer it on the side in a small bowl for dipping. Adding lemon wedges provides a bright zing that guests can squeeze over their chicken for an extra flavor kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover chicken and potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, so leftovers taste delicious and are easy to reheat for a quick meal later on.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken drumsticks by wrapping them tightly in foil and then placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. For best taste, consume frozen leftovers within two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken and potatoes in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes to restore some crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the skin nice and crisp; the oven method brings back the lovely caramelized texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully with this honey mustard glaze, offering juicy meat and rich flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the size of the pieces.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure to use a gluten-free mustard and replace the cornflour with a gluten-free thickener like arrowroot powder. This keeps all the great flavors intact without any gluten concerns.
What can I substitute for honey if I don’t have any?
Maple syrup or agave nectar are fantastic substitutes that bring sweetness and help the glaze caramelize beautifully. You might want to reduce the quantity just a little, as these can be a bit sweeter than honey.
How do I ensure the chicken skin gets crispy?
Dry the drumsticks thoroughly before glazing and avoid overcrowding them on the baking tray. Also, turning them halfway through cooking helps crispen all sides evenly.
Can this recipe be made on a grill instead of the oven?
Yes! Grill the drumsticks over medium heat, turning regularly and brushing on the honey mustard glaze during cooking. Keep the grill covered to cook evenly and prevent flare-ups from sticky glaze drips.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe perfectly blends sweet, tangy, and savory notes, creating a dish that feels both exciting and comforting — a true crowd-pleaser any night of the week. With easy prep, accessible ingredients, and delicious results, I promise it will become your go-to recipe whenever you want a tasty meal with minimal fuss but maximum flavor. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love!
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Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
- Prep Time: 11 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 11 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western
Description
These Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks are a deliciously tangy and sweet main dish perfect for a family dinner. Marinated in a blend of Dijon and wholegrain mustards with honey and garlic, then baked to juicy perfection, they’re served alongside crispy roasted potatoes and steamed broccolini for a balanced, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 x 150g (5oz) potatoes
- 2 tbsp (30 g) olive oil or melted butter
Chicken Drumsticks
- 8 chicken legs (about 1 kg / 2 lb)
- 2 tsp olive oil
Honey Mustard Marinade
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard (or more Dijon mustard if preferred)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp cornflour (cornstarch)
- Pinch of salt and pepper
To Serve
- Fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley
- Steamed broccolini
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Wash and cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces. Toss them in olive oil or melted butter, then spread them out on a baking tray. Place them in the oven to roast for about 40-50 minutes until crispy and golden, turning occasionally for even cooking.
- Make the Honey Mustard Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, wholegrain mustard, honey, minced garlic, cornflour, salt, and pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Prepare and Marinate Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Drizzle 2 teaspoons of olive oil over them, then coat each drumstick generously with the honey mustard marinade, ensuring all sides are covered.
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken drumsticks on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake them in the preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through with an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and the skin is caramelized and slightly crispy. If needed, you can broil for 2-3 minutes at the end to achieve extra caramelization.
- Steam the Broccolini: While the chicken is baking, steam the broccolini until tender but still vibrant green, about 5-7 minutes.
- Serve: Arrange the roasted potatoes, baked honey mustard chicken drumsticks, and steamed broccolini on plates. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley for a fresh herbal note. Enjoy your hearty, flavorful meal!
Notes
- Note 1: Potatoes can be substituted with sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
- Note 2: Chicken legs can be replaced with drumsticks or thighs as preferred.
- Note 3: Feel free to adjust the mustard types to your taste; both Dijon and wholegrain add depth and texture.
- Note 4: Cornflour helps to thicken the marinade and allows it to stick better to the chicken.
