Crispy Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Crispy and succulent oven baked bbq chicken drumsticks promise a mouthwatering meal that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Tender meat falls right off the bone with incredible flavor.

Marinades work magic on these juicy proteins, infusing each bite with smoky sweetness.

Deep caramelization happens naturally when you brush on tangy sauce during roasting.

My grandmother’s secret technique involves layering rich spices for maximum deliciousness.

Quick preparation means minimal kitchen time and maximum enjoyment.

Serve these irresistible drumsticks alongside creamy coleslaw or bright summer salad for a perfect dinner that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Questions About Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, you can easily substitute chicken thighs. Just adjust cooking time slightly and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165℉.

• How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165℉. The meat should be white throughout with no pink areas.

• What type of BBQ sauce works best for this recipe?

Any store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce will work. Choose a sauce you enjoy – sweet, tangy, or spicy varieties all complement the chicken well.

• Can I make these drumsticks ahead of time?

You can prepare the seasoned drumsticks earlier in the day and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if cooking directly from the refrigerator.

Why Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Are So Tasty

• Prep Like a Pro: No complicated techniques required, just mix spices and brush sauce for restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen.
• Crowd-Pleasing Magic: These drumsticks deliver bold, smoky flavors that appeal to everyone from kids to adults, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
• Healthy Meal Solution: Baking instead of frying cuts down on excess oil while preserving juicy chicken texture and creating a crispy, caramelized exterior that feels indulgent without guilt.
• Minimal Cleanup Champion: Using aluminum foil means easy baking and zero messy pans, so you spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.

What You’ll Need For Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

• Chicken Drumsticks: Fresh poultry cuts perfect for a flavorful and easy main dish.

• Olive Oil: Helps distribute spices and creates a delicious coating for the chicken.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Smoked Paprika, Chili Powder, Salt, Pepper: Blend of spices that adds depth and complexity to the chicken's flavor profile.

• BBQ Sauce: Sweet and tangy sauce that caramelizes during baking, creating a delicious glazed exterior for the chicken drumsticks.

Easy Steps To Cook Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Step 1: Fire Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a sizzling 400℉. Grab a baking sheet and drape it with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Dry The Drumsticks

Grab paper towels and give those chicken drumsticks a thorough pat-down, removing any excess moisture.

Step 3: Create Flavor Explosion

• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika
• Chili powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir these spices until they form a tantalizing marinade.

Step 4: Massage The Meat

Rub the spicy oil mixture all over the drumsticks, making sure every nook and cranny gets coated with flavor.

Step 5: Arrange On Baking Sheet

Spread the seasoned drumsticks across the foil-lined baking sheet, giving each piece some breathing room.

Step 6: First Baking Round

Slide the baking sheet into the oven and let the chicken cook for 25-30 minutes until it’s almost done.

Step 7: Barbecue Sauce Magic

Pull out the chicken and generously slather each drumstick with your favorite BBQ sauce.

Step 8: Final Sizzle

Return the sauced drumsticks to the oven for another 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for a caramelized exterior and an internal temperature of 165℉.

Step 9: Rest And Serve

Let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes to lock in those juicy flavors. Serve hot and enjoy your mouthwatering creation!

Helpful Ideas For Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

• Dry Chicken Thoroughly: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring crispy skin and better seasoning adherence.
• Spice Mix Magic: Create a flavor-packed rub by mixing olive oil with garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder for depth of taste.
• Sauce Technique: Apply BBQ sauce in the final cooking stage to prevent burning and allow perfect caramelization.
• Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165℉ for safe, juicy results.
• Resting Matters: Allow drumsticks to rest a few minutes after cooking to lock in juices and enhance overall flavor.

New Flavors For Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

• Spicy Cajun Chicken Drumsticks: Replace smoked paprika and chili powder with Cajun seasoning for a bold, zesty flavor profile that packs a punch.
• Herb-Infused Mediterranean Drumsticks: Swap spices with dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary, and use lemon juice instead of olive oil for a fresh Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Gluten-Free Low-Carb Option: Use sugar-free BBQ sauce and ensure all spices are gluten-free certified for those with dietary restrictions.
• Air Fryer Alternative: Cook drumsticks in an air fryer at 380℉ for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a crispy exterior with less oil.

Top Pairings For Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

• Pair Crisp Coleslaw: Fresh, tangy cabbage salad cuts through the rich, smoky chicken flavors, providing a cool and crunchy contrast.
• Serve Buttery Cornbread: Soft, slightly sweet cornbread complements the spicy BBQ drumsticks, soaking up delicious sauce and balancing heat.
• Match Zesty Beer Pairing: Light, hoppy craft beer or pale ale refreshes the palate, enhancing the barbecue's smoky and spicy profile while cleansing taste buds between bites.
• Select Chilled Potato Salad: Creamy, herb-infused potato salad offers a smooth texture that perfectly accompanies the crispy, caramelized chicken drumsticks.

How To Store Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Well

• Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and safety.
• Wrap individual drumsticks tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with date and contents.
• Preheat oven to 350℉. Place drumsticks in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165℉.
• Reheat drumsticks on medium power for 1-2 minutes, turning halfway. Add a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to maintain moisture and prevent toughness.

Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

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4.5 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 45–55 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Sizzling BBQ chicken drumsticks bring Southern comfort straight to your dinner table. Juicy chicken bathed in smoky, tangy sauce promises a mouthwatering meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 8 chicken drumsticks

Spices and Seasonings:

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper

Liquids and Oils:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra-virgin)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 400℉ and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the chicken drumsticks, ensuring a crisp exterior.
3. Create a flavorful seasoning blend by combining olive oil with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
4. Massage the aromatic spice mixture thoroughly onto each drumstick, coating them completely and evenly.
5. Carefully arrange the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow even heat circulation.
6. Roast the chicken for 25–30 minutes until the meat is nearly cooked through and beginning to turn golden brown.
7. Carefully remove the chicken from the oven and liberally coat each drumstick with BBQ sauce, ensuring complete coverage.
8. Return the sauced drumsticks to the oven and continue baking for an additional 10–15 minutes until the sauce caramelizes and the internal temperature reaches 165℉.
9. Allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes, which helps redistribute the juices and enhance the overall flavor before serving.

Notes

• Ensure chicken is thoroughly dried before seasoning to help achieve crispy, golden-brown skin with maximum flavor absorption.
• Customize spice blend by adjusting heat levels or using different dried herbs and spices like smoked paprika, cayenne, or dried thyme for varied flavor profiles.
• For gluten-free version, choose a gluten-free BBQ sauce and verify all spice ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Create a healthier option by using low-sugar or sugar-free BBQ sauce and removing skin to reduce calorie and fat content while maintaining juicy meat texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35–45 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg