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Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings (2-3 drumsticks per person) 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are tender, juicy, and packed with smoky, tangy barbecue flavors. Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, baking locks in moisture for perfectly succulent chicken with a crispy skin and a sticky, caramelized BBQ glaze. Ideal for casual dinners or special occasions, this versatile recipe is customizable to suit your preferred heat and sweetness levels.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 8–10 fresh chicken drumsticks, uniform size

Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce & Sweetener

  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your preferred brand or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the drumsticks: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up nicely. Lightly coat the drumsticks with olive oil and season evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to create a flavorful base.
  2. Preheat and prepare baking tray: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top to allow air circulation, which helps the skin become crispy without becoming soggy.
  3. Bake halfway: Arrange the drumsticks on the wire rack and bake for about 25 minutes until the skin starts to brown and juices run clear.
  4. Apply BBQ sauce: Remove the drumsticks from the oven and generously brush them with your favorite BBQ sauce mixed with honey or brown sugar. Return the drumsticks to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, basting once more halfway through to develop a sticky, caramelized glaze.
  5. Final broil for crunch (optional): For extra crispy edges, switch the oven to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  6. Rest and serve: Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.

Notes

  • Dry the chicken well to remove excess moisture for crispier skin.
  • Use a wire rack to elevate drumsticks for even cooking and crispiness.
  • Resting the chicken after baking locks in juices and enhances tenderness.
  • Apply BBQ sauce in layers by basting twice to build a rich flavor and glossy finish.
  • Broil only briefly at the end to get crispy edges without burning.
  • Choose a quality BBQ sauce for the best flavor results.
  • Adjust cooking time depending on drumstick size for thorough cooking.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2-3 drumsticks
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

Keywords: BBQ chicken, baked chicken drumsticks, easy BBQ recipe, gluten-free chicken, baked drumsticks, barbecue chicken

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Find it online: https://marysplate.com/baked-bbq-chicken-drumsticks/