BBQ Baked Chicken Drumsticks!

🍗 BBQ Baked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 10–12 chicken drumsticks (skin-on for best flavor)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

• ½ tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

For the BBQ Glaze:

• ¾ cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 2 tbsp honey (for extra glaze and caramelization)

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for tang)

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional but adds depth)

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Pat chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels — this helps the skin crisp up.

3. In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks.

4. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chili powder. Toss well to coat evenly.

2. Bake the Drumsticks

1. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top (optional but helps air circulate).

2. Arrange drumsticks in a single layer — don’t overcrowd.

3. Bake for 35 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3. Glaze and Finish

1. While baking, mix BBQ sauce, honey, vinegar, and Worcestershire in a bowl.

2. After 35 minutes, brush a thick coat of the BBQ glaze over the drumsticks.

3. Return to oven and bake another 10–15 minutes, until sauce caramelizes and chicken reaches internal temp of 165°F (74°C).

4. For extra char, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end — watch closely so it doesn’t burn.

4. Rest and Serve

• Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

• Garnish with chopped parsley, sesame seeds, or extra BBQ sauce on the side.

🍴 Tips for Perfect Drumsticks

• Dry the chicken well before seasoning for crispier skin.

• Use thicker BBQ sauce for that sticky, glazed look.

• For a smoky flavor, add liquid smoke or grill briefly after baking.

• Pairs beautifully with coleslaw, roasted corn, or potato wedges.