Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

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Are you ready for a finger-licking good dinner that will leave you craving more? Look no further than these Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks! Juicy, flavorful, and utterly delicious, this recipe is perfect for casual family dinners or gatherings with friends. The best part? You can bake them in the oven, making them a healthier alternative to fried chicken while still packing all that delicious BBQ flavor. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will surely be a hit!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks recipe is not only straightforward to prepare, but it also boasts a wonderful balance of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors. Plus, using the oven means you can get that crispy skin without frying. These drumsticks are perfect for meal prep, tailgating, or simply satisfying your craving for BBQ. The seasoning blend enhances the natural flavors of the chicken, making each bite a delight. With minimal hands-on time, these drumsticks are ideal for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.

Ingredients

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (use less if you don’t like spicy food)
• ½ teaspoon garlic granules
• ½ teaspoon onion granules
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons BBQ sauce

How To Make Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hotter oven will help achieve that crispy skin we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic granules, onion granules, ground black pepper, and salt. Whisk the ingredients together until you have a smooth marinade. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss them until they are evenly coated with the marinade.

Step 3: Arrange the Drumsticks

Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet (this step is optional but recommended for extra crispiness). Arrange the seasoned drumsticks on the rack, making sure they are not touching each other. This allows hot air to circulate, ensuring even cooking.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Bake the drumsticks in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This will give them a nice initial cook without the sauce.

Step 5: Add the BBQ Sauce

After 25 minutes, remove the drumsticks from the oven and brush them generously with BBQ sauce on all sides. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the BBQ sauce to caramelize and stick to the chicken.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

You can check if the drumsticks are cooked through by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C). If they aren’t quite there, you can bake them for a few more minutes until cooked through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve your delicious Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks hot with your favorite sides, and enjoy the burst of flavors!

Expert Tips

• For extra flavor, marinate the drumsticks overnight in the fridge before cooking.
• If you don’t have a wire rack, you can bake them directly on the sheet, but be sure to flip them halfway through cooking for even crispness.
• Use a variety of BBQ sauces! Experiment with different flavors like honey barbecue or spicy chipotle to suit your taste.
• If you prefer, you can also grill these drumsticks for an additional layer of smokiness after baking.

Variations and Customizations

• For a sweet and spicy kick, add some honey or brown sugar to the BBQ sauce before coating the drumsticks.
• Try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the spice mix for an aromatic touch.
• For a different flavor profile, replace the chili powder with a dash of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce.
• Feel free to swap the chicken drumsticks for thighs or wings; just adjust cooking time accordingly.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. If you want to keep them crispy, consider reheating them on a wire rack.

FAQ

Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Absolutely! If you prefer using an air fryer, preheat it to 400°F (200°C) and cook the drumsticks for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Brush on the BBQ sauce during the last 5-10 minutes for glazing.

What sides go well with BBQ chicken drumsticks?

Classic sides include coleslaw, roasted vegetables, corn on the cob, potato salad, and baked beans. You can mix it up with fresh salads or creamy mac and cheese for a comforting touch.

Can I freeze the cooked drumsticks?

Yes, you can freeze cooked drumsticks! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.

How can I make these drumsticks gluten-free?

Ensure that your BBQ sauce is gluten-free, as some sauces may contain gluten as a thickening agent. Otherwise, all the seasoning ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Now that you have the perfect recipe for Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking! Easy, delicious, and versatile, this dish will surely find a place in your meal rotation. From busy weeknights to summer cookouts, these drumsticks will bring smiles all around. Enjoy the smoky, savory flavors and the joy of homemade BBQ chicken right from your oven!

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