Description
A simple and flavorful baked BBQ chicken drumsticks recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. These juicy, tender drumsticks feature a smoky-sweet BBQ glaze that delivers a delightful balance of flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Drumsticks
- 8–10 fresh or thawed chicken drumsticks
Seasonings
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar (optional)
BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup smoky, tangy BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare the Drumsticks: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up nicely in the oven. Lightly coat them with olive oil to help seasonings stick and ensure the skin browns beautifully.
- Season Generously: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly over all sides of the drumsticks for balanced flavor.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Line a baking tray with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the drumsticks on the sheet, spaced slightly apart to allow even air circulation and roasting.
- Bake Until Almost Done: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the drumsticks for 25-30 minutes until cooked through and nearly tender, turning halfway to brown evenly.
- Apply BBQ Sauce: Remove drumsticks briefly from the oven and generously brush BBQ sauce over each piece to add moisture and a glossy finish.
- Final Bake for Glazing: Return drumsticks to the oven for another 10-15 minutes to caramelize the sauce and form a sticky, flavorful crust.
- Rest and Serve: Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices before serving, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
Notes
- Always pat chicken dry before seasoning to get crispier skin.
- Use a wire rack on your baking sheet for better air circulation and less sogginess.
- Let drumsticks marinate with dry spices for 30 minutes if possible for deeper flavor.
- Apply BBQ sauce during the last phase to prevent burning due to sugar content.
- Check internal temperature aiming for 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety and juiciness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 drumsticks
- Calories: 280-320
- Sugar: 6-8g
- Sodium: 550-650mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: BBQ chicken, baked chicken drumsticks, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, smoky glaze, family favorite