Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

These oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks are not just a meal; they’re an experience. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, these drumsticks are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. With their bold, smoky flavor and a sweet barbecue glaze, they make any occasion special with minimal effort.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken Drumsticks
• For Garnish
• How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Spice Rub
• Step 4: Coat the Drumsticks
• Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
• Step 6: Initial Bake
• Step 7: Add BBQ Sauce
• Step 8: Final Bake
• Step 9: Let Rest
• How to Serve Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
• With Fresh Salad
• Pair with Dipping Sauces
• Serve in a Wrap
• Create a Platter
• How to Perfect Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
• Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
• Reheating Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?
• What barbecue sauce works best with these drumsticks?
• How do I achieve extra crispy skin?
• Are these oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks healthy?
• Can I marinate these drumsticks overnight?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Crispy and Juicy: The oven-baking method ensures that each drumstick is perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.
• Flavor Packed: A savory spice rub combined with sweet BBQ sauce makes these drumsticks bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal for weeknight dinners, weekend barbecues, or even game day festivities!
• Minimal Clean-Up: Using aluminum foil on your baking sheet reduces clean-up time, allowing you to enjoy your meal more.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Paper towels
• Brush for BBQ sauce

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting the chicken, ensuring all sides cook evenly.
• Aluminum foil: Makes clean-up a breeze by preventing food from sticking to the baking sheet.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining spices and oil evenly before applying them to the drumsticks.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Drumsticks

• 8 fresh chicken drumsticks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra-virgin recommended)
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup BBQ sauce

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400℉. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure they get crispy during baking.

Step 3: Make the Spice Rub

In a small bowl, mix together:
1. Olive oil
2. Garlic powder
3. Onion powder
4. Smoked paprika
5. Chili powder
6. Kosher salt
7. Black pepper

Step 4: Coat the Drumsticks

Rub the oil and spice mixture evenly over all the drumsticks so each piece is well coated.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.

Step 6: Initial Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through (internal temperature should be around 165℉).

Step 7: Add BBQ Sauce

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

Step 8: Final Bake

Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until caramelized and fully cooked through.

Step 9: Let Rest

Let rest for a few minutes before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks!

How to Serve Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Serving oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks is straightforward and enjoyable. These flavorful drumsticks can be the star of any meal, making them perfect for casual dinners or special gatherings. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tang from coleslaw complement the sweet BBQ sauce beautifully.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A creamy ranch dressing pairs well for those who love an extra layer of flavor.
• Hot Sauce: For spice lovers, a drizzle of hot sauce can take these drumsticks to the next level.

Serve in a Wrap

• BBQ Chicken Wraps: Shred the cooked drumsticks and wrap them in tortillas with lettuce and ranch or BBQ sauce for a tasty handheld meal.

Create a Platter

• Party Platter: Arrange the drumsticks on a large platter with veggies and dips for a great centerpiece at parties.

How to Perfect Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

To ensure your oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and spices enhance flavor significantly. Always choose quality ingredients for the best taste.
• Pat Dry Before Seasoning: Drying the drumsticks helps the skin crisp up during baking, ensuring a delightful texture.
• Evenly Coat with Spice Mix: Make sure to rub the spice mixture evenly over each drumstick for consistent flavor throughout.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your chicken in the oven; cooking times may vary based on size. Aim for an internal temperature of 165℉.
• Let Rest After Baking: Allowing your chicken to rest after baking helps retain juices, leading to tender and juicy meat.

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Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks pair excellently with various side dishes that balance their rich flavors. Here are some delicious options you can consider serving alongside them.

1. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements BBQ flavors perfectly. Grill or boil it for a summer classic.
2. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans enhances smoky flavors and offers a hearty side.
3. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese adds comfort and richness that everyone loves.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch next to juicy chicken.
6. Garlic Bread: This easy-to-make side is perfect for soaking up excess BBQ sauce while adding flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Drying Step: Not patting the chicken dry can lead to soggy skin. Always dry your drumsticks thoroughly before seasoning.
• Under-seasoning: Using too little spice can result in bland chicken. Be generous with your spice rub for maximum flavor.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat to 400℉ for even cooking.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Serving undercooked chicken is unsafe. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165℉.
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many drumsticks together can prevent them from crisping up. Leave space between each piece for proper air circulation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked drumsticks in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

• Wrap individual drumsticks tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

• Oven: Preheat to 350℉ and bake for about 15–20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes, checking for warmth.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a skillet with a splash of water, covering until warm.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?

You can use other cuts like thighs or wings, but adjust cooking times as needed based on the size of the pieces.

What barbecue sauce works best with these drumsticks?

A sweet and tangy BBQ sauce complements the spices well. Feel free to experiment with your favorite brand!

How do I achieve extra crispy skin?

For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking while keeping an eye on it to avoid burning.

Are these oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks healthy?

Yes! They are baked instead of fried, making them a healthier choice compared to traditional fried chicken.

Can I marinate these drumsticks overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat.

Final Thoughts

These oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by changing up the spices or sauces according to your taste preferences. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, we encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its flavorful goodness!

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