Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

These Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! They’re tender, juicy, and coated in a flavorful BBQ sauce that’s baked to sticky perfection. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner, a backyard barbecue, or any occasion where you want a delicious and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful: The combination of spices and BBQ sauce creates a delicious and irresistible flavor.
• Easy to make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal prep work.
• Healthy: Baked chicken drumsticks are a healthier alternative to fried chicken.
• Versatile: You can use your favorite BBQ sauce or even make your own.

this Recipe

Ingredients for Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Fresh Chicken Drumsticks: Choose fresh, high-quality drumsticks for the best results.
• Olive Oil: Used to coat the chicken and help the spices adhere.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Smoked Paprika, Chili Powder: A blend of spices that add depth and complexity to the chicken.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Enhance the overall taste.
• BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Rub the oil and spice mixture all over the chicken drumsticks.

Step 3: Bake

Place the seasoned chicken drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through.

Step 4: Add the BBQ Sauce

Remove the chicken from the oven and brush each drumstick generously with BBQ sauce.

Step 5: Bake Again and Serve

Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the BBQ sauce is caramelized. Let the chicken rest at room temperature for a few minutes before serving warm.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Crispy skin: For crispy skin, broil the chicken drumsticks for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
• Marinate: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken drumsticks in the spice and olive oil mixture for 1-4 hours before baking.
• Chicken drumsticks: For best results, use fresh chicken drumsticks. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed before starting the recipe.

How to Serve Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

• Weeknight dinner: These drumsticks are perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
• Barbecue or picnic: They’re also a great option for a backyard barbecue, picnic, or potluck.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken drumsticks gently in the oven or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use other chicken pieces?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs, legs, or even a whole chicken cut into pieces. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply season the chicken drumsticks and place them in the slow cooker. Pour your favorite BBQ sauce over the chicken and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.

My BBQ sauce is burning, what should I do?
If your BBQ sauce is burning, reduce the oven temperature or cover the chicken with foil for the remaining cooking time.

Can I make this recipe without BBQ sauce?
Yes, you can! Simply omit the BBQ sauce and enjoy the chicken with the flavorful spice rub.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for the BEST Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks. I hope you enjoy it!

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