Juicy Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks You’ll Crave

Caroline

Sharing simple, flavorful recipes made with love and care.

There’s something irresistible about the way honey and mustard come together to create a glaze that’s both sweet and tangy, perfectly hugging every bite of tender baked chicken drumsticks. After a long day, when I crave comfort food without the hassle, this Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks recipe is my go-to. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare yet delivers layers of flavor that impress every time—whether I’m cooking for family, friends, or simply treating myself. The golden, caramelized coating and juicy meat inside make it a crowd-pleaser that never gets old. Ready to turn an everyday dinner into something special? Let me show you how easy it is to bring this savory-sweet classic to your table.

Why choose Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks?

Simplicity at its best: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and fuss, perfect for busy weeknights. Flavor explosion: The honey and mustard glaze creates a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes. Juicy tenderness: Baking locks in moisture, giving you irresistibly juicy drumsticks every time. Crowd-pleaser: Great for family dinners or casual gatherings, everyone will ask for seconds. Versatile pairing: Serve with salads, roasted veggies, or your favorite side dishes for an easy, complete meal.

Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks Ingredients

For the Chicken and Marinade

Chicken drumsticks – Choose drumsticks with skin-on for extra flavor and a crispy finish.
Honey – Adds natural sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze beautifully.
Dijon mustard – Brings a tangy kick critical for that classic honey mustard flavor.
Olive oil – Helps keep the chicken moist and enhances browning during baking.
Garlic cloves – Minced garlic boosts savory depth without overpowering the honey mustard balance.
Apple cider vinegar – Adds a subtle acidity that brightens and balances the glaze.
Salt – Essential for seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.
Black pepper – Freshly cracked for a mild heat that complements the sweetness.

For Serving (Optional)

Fresh parsley – Finely chopped to add a fresh, herby finish atop the golden drumsticks.
Lemon wedges – A squeeze just before serving adds brightness and cuts through the richness.

This ingredient list ensures the Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks come out juicy, flavorful, and ready to impress anyone craving a homemade feast.

How to Make Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Marinate In a large bowl, whisk honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Coat drumsticks, cover, and chill at least 30 minutes.
Preheat Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), then line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and lightly brush oil to prevent sticking.
Arrange Place drumsticks skin-side up on the prepared sheet, spacing pieces evenly so heat circulates and skin crisps to a light golden color.
Bake Roast for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway, until drumsticks are golden brown, the glaze is caramelized, and the meat registers 165°F.
Rest Let drumsticks rest 5 minutes on a wire rack; this locks in juices and helps the glaze set for a juicier bite.

Optional: Top with chopped parsley and lemon zest for brightness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken drumsticks up to 24 hours in advance; simply whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper, and coat the drumsticks. Then, cover and refrigerate them to keep the flavors vibrant and prevent browning. If you’re looking to prep even further, you can also freeze the marinated drumsticks for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in a preheated oven and bake as directed—this way, you’ll have juicy, flavorful drumsticks with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks?

Imagine gathering around the table, savoring the sweet, tangy flavors of a hearty meal that complements every juicy bite of your chicken drumsticks.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes create a luscious contrast to the glazed drumsticks, soaking up any leftover sauce wonderfully.
Seasoned Roasted Vegetables: Crisp-tender veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts add freshness and earthiness, making every bite satisfying.
Steamed Green Beans: Their bright color and crisp texture provide a refreshing balance to the rich honey mustard flavor, delighting the senses.
Simple Garden Salad: A light, tangy salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch, cleansing the palate with crunchy bites between the succulent chicken.
Coleslaw: This crunchy side offers a cool, tangy crunch that perfectly contrasts the warmth of the baked chicken, adding texture and excitement.
Honey Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy, cornbread is a nostalgic addition that complements the glazed chicken while soaking up every drop of its flavor.
Fresh Lemonade: A glass of refreshing, zesty lemonade wonderfully enhances the dish’s sweetness while providing a thirst-quenching finish to the meal.
Apple Pie: For dessert, a slice of warm apple pie celebrates the meal with its comforting spices and sweet-tart flavor, making the evening unforgettable.

Variations & Substitutions for Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Feel free to mix things up and make this recipe your own with these delightful variations!

Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a zesty heat that adds depth. Spice lovers will rejoice at the extra layer of flavor!
Herb Infusion: Include fresh rosemary or thyme in the marinade for an aromatic boost that lifts the dish to a whole new level. The fragrance will infuse your kitchen with cozy vibes.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the Dijon mustard with a gluten-free variety to keep the recipe safe for those with sensitivities. Enjoy the same delicious results without worry!
Honey Alternatives: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweet note. Each option brings its unique flavor while keeping the glaze luscious.
Crispy Option: After marinating, coat the drumsticks in breadcrumbs before baking for an extra crunchy texture. This twist is sure to please anyone who loves a little crunch!
Citrusy Zing: Use lemon or orange juice instead of vinegar for a bright, fresh taste that cuts through the richness. A burst of citrus can change the whole profile and keep it exciting.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into your marinade for a delightful smoky undertone that complements the sweet and tangy glaze. This small change offers a barbecue feel that’s irresistible!
Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken drumsticks with large portobello mushrooms for a delicious plant-based twist. Marinate and bake them just like the chicken, and enjoy a hearty vegetarian meal.

How to Store and Freeze Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Fridge: Keep leftover drumsticks in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, ensuring they reach 165°F before serving.

Freezer: Freeze cooked drumsticks in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They will last up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating: For best results, reheat frozen drumsticks in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through, maintaining their juiciness.

Thawing: Always thaw frozen drumsticks in the refrigerator overnight for even cooking, ensuring they remain safe and delicious for your next meal.

Expert Tips for Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Marinate Thoroughly: Allow the chicken drumsticks to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if possible, to ensure every bite soaks up the honey mustard glaze.
Pat Dry Before Baking: Dry the drumsticks with paper towels before coating to help the skin crisp up beautifully during baking.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee juicy, safely cooked chicken without overbaking.
Rotate for Even Browning: Turn the drumsticks halfway through baking to caramelize the glaze evenly and avoid burnt spots.
Rest Before Serving: Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes after baking to lock in juices and keep the texture tender.

Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my chicken drumsticks are fresh and good for this recipe?
Choose drumsticks with firm, pinkish skin and no unpleasant odor. Avoid pieces with dark spots all over or slimy texture. Fresh chicken ensures the best flavor and safety for your honey mustard glaze to shine.

Can I store leftover Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Drumsticks in the fridge?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. To keep them juicy when reheating, I recommend warming them gently in the oven instead of the microwave.

Is it possible to freeze cooked drumsticks, and how should I do it?
Yes, freezing is a great way to save leftovers! First, cool the drumsticks completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Why did my drumsticks turn out dry, and how can I fix this next time?
Dry chicken usually means it was overcooked or not rested properly. Make sure to bake until just 165°F internal temp and always let the drumsticks rest 5 minutes after baking—this locks in the juices. Also, marinating helps keep them tender and flavorful.

Are honey mustard glazed chicken drumsticks safe for pets or suitable for special diets?
While delicious for humans, honey and mustard ingredients aren’t recommended for dogs or cats as some components can upset their stomachs. For allergy concerns, you can substitute Dijon mustard with a milder mustard variant or use a honey alternative like maple syrup if avoiding added sugars.