Save to Pins Juicy chicken drumsticks coated in a smoky, tangy barbecue sauce and baked until perfectly crispy. A family-friendly favorite with all the flavor of grilled BBQ made right in your oven.
This recipe has become a staple at family dinners because it’s simple yet packed with flavor and texture.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 8 chicken drumsticks (about 1.2 kg / 2.5 lbs), 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder
- BBQ Sauce: ½ cup (120 ml) barbecue sauce (store bought or homemade, gluten free if needed), 1 tablespoon honey (optional for extra caramelization), 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Prepare Drumsticks:
- Pat drumsticks dry with paper towels. Place in a large bowl.
- Season:
- Drizzle with olive oil then sprinkle with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange:
- Arrange drumsticks in a single layer on the rack, spacing them apart.
- Bake First Round:
- Bake for 30 minutes, turning once halfway through.
- Mix Sauce:
- Meanwhile, mix barbecue sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
- Brush Sauce:
- Remove drumsticks from oven. Brush generously with BBQ sauce mixture on all sides.
- Bake Second Round:
- Return to oven and bake for another 15 minutes, basting once more if desired until sticky, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C / 165°F).
- Rest:
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save to Pins This dish always brings everyone together for a fun and relaxed family meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or potato salad for a complete meal.
Dietary Notes
Make it dairy free by ensuring your BBQ sauce contains no butter or cream. The recipe can be gluten free if using gluten free BBQ sauce.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer preservation.
Save to Pins Enjoy a deliciously crispy BBQ chicken drumstick made easily in your oven.
Questions & Answers
- → How do I ensure the drumsticks get crispy in the oven?
Pat the drumsticks dry before seasoning and place them on a wire rack to allow air circulation. Broiling for 2-3 minutes at the end enhances crispiness.
- → Can I use different barbecue sauces?
Yes, experimenting with spicy, smoky, or sweet barbecue sauces allows you to tailor the flavor to your taste preferences.
- → What internal temperature should the chicken reach when cooked?
The drumsticks should reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Using a gluten-free barbecue sauce makes this dish suitable for gluten-free diets. Always check the sauce's ingredients to confirm.
- → What are good side dishes to serve with these drumsticks?
Coleslaw, corn on the cob, or potato salad complement the smoky flavors well and make for a balanced meal.