Description
Hey kitchen friend! Olivia here, apron dusted with flour (and probably honey too). If you’re craving juicy, tender chicken legs coated in a sticky, sweet-savory glaze bursting with garlic, ginger, and umami, this recipe is for you. Minimal effort, maximum flavor, and all the cozy vibes you want on a weeknight. Let’s make some magic!
Ingredients
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6 chicken legs (drumsticks), bone-in, skin-on
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1/4 cup honey
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1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos)
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1 tsp garlic powder (or 2–3 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
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1/2 tsp ginger powder (or 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger)
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1 tsp cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
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1/4 tsp salt (adjust for soy sauce saltiness)
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Optional garnish: sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
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Whisk your glaze: In a medium bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Whisk well until smooth and cornstarch fully dissolved. Tip: Warm the honey slightly if needed for easier mixing.
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Marinate: Add chicken legs and toss to coat fully. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (overnight for deeper flavor).
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Prep the oven & pan: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with foil and lightly spray with oil.
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Bake: Arrange legs in a single layer, pour marinade over them. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, basting with pan juices at 20 and 35 minutes.
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Broil finish: Increase oven to BROIL. Broil 2-3 minutes until caramelized and slightly charred. Watch carefully!
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Rest: Let chicken rest 5 minutes in pan before serving.
Notes
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Cornstarch is key for that thick, clingy glaze—not just a runny sauce.
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Broiling caramelizes and adds texture—don’t skip!
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Marinate longer for deeper flavor and tenderness.
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Use skin-on chicken for juiciness and crispiness.
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Can prep ahead: Marinate up to 24 hours; fully cooked legs keep 3-4 days refrigerated.
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Safety note: The marinade cooks thoroughly during baking, safe to serve as sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes active + 30 minutes to overnight rest
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 295 cal Per Serving 2 legs
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 22g