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Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

honey mustard glazed chicken drumsticks - featured image

A simple and flavorful grilled chicken drumsticks recipe featuring a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze that caramelizes to a sticky, savory finish. Perfect for quick weeknight meals or weekend cookouts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken drumsticks, skin-on (about 2 pounds / 900g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup honey
  • ¼ cup Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. Place them in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then toss to coat evenly. Let rest while you prepare the glaze. (5 minutes)
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard (if using), apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. (5 minutes)
  3. Preheat the grill to medium heat, about 350°F to 375°F (175°C to 190°C). If using charcoal, spread the coals evenly for indirect grilling. (10 minutes)
  4. Place the drumsticks on the grill, skin side down. Grill for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally to cook evenly. Use tongs to flip gently. (15 minutes)
  5. Brush the drumsticks generously with the honey mustard glaze. Continue to grill for another 10-15 minutes, flipping and brushing with more glaze every 5 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). (15 minutes)
  6. Remove the drumsticks and let them rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices. Serve warm with your favorite sides. (5 minutes)

Notes

Pat chicken dry for crispy skin. Use indirect medium heat to prevent burning glaze. Apply glaze gradually in intervals to build flavor without charring. Check doneness with a thermometer (165°F). Rest before serving to lock in juices. If glaze thickens, thin with water. Can bake at 425°F for 35-40 minutes on a wire rack, glazing every 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey mustard chicken, grilled chicken drumsticks, BBQ chicken, honey mustard glaze, summer grilling, easy chicken recipe