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Crispy Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken Drumsticks Recipe Easy Sticky Glaze

crispy honey mustard grilled chicken drumsticks - featured image

A quick and easy grilled chicken drumsticks recipe featuring a sticky honey mustard glaze that caramelizes to crispy perfection, delivering a sweet, tangy, and smoky flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken drumsticks, skin-on
  • 1/4 cup honey (ideally raw or local)
  • 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice in a large bowl until smooth.
  2. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade and toss until each piece is well coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, up to 2 hours.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F / 190°C). If using charcoal, wait until coals are covered with white ash.
  4. Place the drumsticks on the grill grates and cook for about 10 minutes per side, turning occasionally with tongs to avoid piercing the meat.
  5. During the last 10 minutes of grilling, brush the honey mustard glaze onto the drumsticks every few minutes to build a sticky, caramelized coating. Watch for flare-ups.
  6. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, cut into the thickest part to ensure juices run clear.
  7. Remove the drumsticks from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating for crispier skin. Use indirect heat if flare-ups occur. Brush glaze gradually during grilling to avoid burning. Rest chicken before serving to keep it juicy. If no grill is available, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 35-40 minutes, brushing glaze halfway through.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, honey mustard chicken, chicken drumsticks, sticky glaze, barbecue, easy dinner, summer recipe, gluten-free, dairy-free