Sticky Honey Mustard Grilled Drumsticks
Elevate your barbecue gatherings with these Sticky Honey Mustard Grilled Drumsticks, a dish that’s bound to impress friends and family alike. The slashing technique not only allows the sweet and tangy marinade to seep deep into the chicken, ensuring incredible flavor in every bite, but also promotes even cooking throughout the meat, guaranteeing tenderness to the bone. This dish is especially perfect for summer cookouts or cozy gatherings, and the delightful combination of honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Enjoy these drumsticks on their own or pair them with a refreshing sweet-chili dip for an added flavor kick.
4
Servings
310
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken drumsticks
8 (slashed)
garlic
6 (cloves, crushed)
honey
3 (tablespoons)
Dijon mustard
2 (tablespoons)
soy sauce
2 (tablespoons)
lemon juice
1 (tablespoon)
black pepper
1/2-1 (teaspoon, to taste)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine crushed garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, lemon juice, and black pepper. Whisk together until well blended.
2
Add the slashed chicken drumsticks to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a resealable plastic bag.
3
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally up to 6 hours, to allow the flavors to infuse into the chicken.
4
Preheat your grill to medium-hot, aiming for an internal temperature of about 375°F (190°C). For charcoal grills, prepare medium-hot coals.
5
Once heated, place the marinated drumsticks on the grill. Grill for approximately 15 minutes, turning every 3 minutes and basting generously with any leftover marinade to achieve a beautiful glaze.
6
The drumsticks are done when they are opaque with no pink juices running, and they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7
Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, either on their own or with a side of sweet-chili dip for a tasty contrast.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
24g
Carbs
27g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sticky Honey Mustard Grilled Drumsticks?
They are chicken drumsticks marinated in a sweet and tangy blend of honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, and soy sauce, then grilled to achieve a caramelized, sticky glaze.
What ingredients do I need for the marinade?
The marinade consists of crushed garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, lemon juice, and black pepper.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, refrigerate the chicken in the marinade for at least 1 hour, or ideally up to 6 hours.
Why should I slash the chicken drumsticks before marinating?
Slashing the meat allows the marinade to seep deep into the chicken for better flavor and ensures more even cooking throughout the drumstick.
What temperature should the grill be set to?
Aim for a medium-hot grill with an internal temperature of approximately 375°F (190°C).
How long does it take to grill the drumsticks?
The drumsticks typically take about 15 minutes on the grill when turned every few minutes.
What is the safe internal temperature for cooked chicken?
Chicken drumsticks are safe to eat once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How often should I turn the chicken on the grill?
You should turn the drumsticks every 3 minutes to ensure even cooking and to prevent the honey in the glaze from burning.
Can I use a charcoal grill for this recipe?
Yes, you can use charcoal; simply prepare medium-hot coals and arrange them for even heat distribution.
How do I make the drumsticks extra sticky?
Baste the chicken generously with the leftover marinade every time you turn them on the grill to build up a thick, caramelized glaze.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 4 servings, which typically equates to 8 drumsticks.
What is the nutritional content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 310 calories, 27g of protein, 24g of carbohydrates, and 10g of fat.
Can I substitute Dijon mustard with something else?
While Dijon provides a specific tangy heat, you could use whole grain mustard or yellow mustard, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
What should I serve with these drumsticks?
They pair perfectly with a sweet-chili dip, grilled vegetables, or a fresh summer salad.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, it contains soy sauce which usually contains wheat. To make it gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy alternative.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Yes, this marinade and grilling technique work well with chicken thighs, though cooking times may vary slightly based on thickness.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe calls for 6 cloves of garlic, crushed, to provide a robust savory base for the marinade.
Do I need to let the chicken rest after grilling?
Yes, letting the drumsticks rest for a few minutes after removing them from the grill helps the juices redistribute, ensuring the meat stays tender.
Can I bake these in the oven if I don't have a grill?
Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, though you may miss out on the smoky grill flavor.
Is there a limit to how long I should marinate?
Avoid marinating longer than 24 hours, as the lemon juice (acid) can eventually start to break down the texture of the meat too much.
How do I know the chicken is done without a thermometer?
The drumsticks should be opaque throughout and the juices should run clear with no hint of pink when the meat is pierced.
Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes, maple syrup is a great 1:1 substitute for honey and will provide a slightly different but delicious sweetness.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the sweet honey and savory mustard flavor profile is generally very popular with children.
How should I store leftover drumsticks?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the drumsticks in the marinade. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator before grilling.
How much honey is used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 3 tablespoons of honey to achieve the signature sticky glaze.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it is not inherently spicy, though the Dijon mustard and black pepper provide a mild tang and warmth.
Can I use fresh lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the brightest flavor, using about 1 tablespoon for the marinade.
Does this recipe include any fiber?
No, this specific recipe does not contain a significant amount of dietary fiber.
What makes this recipe a summer favorite?
Its quick grilling time, sweet and savory profile, and easy preparation make it ideal for outdoor cookouts and family gatherings.