Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

When it comes to comfort food, few things can rival the deliciousness of BBQ chicken drumsticks. These tender, juicy pieces of chicken are perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or simply an indulgent weeknight dinner. The allure of BBQ chicken lies not only in its mouthwatering flavor but also in the nostalgia it brings, often reminding us of sunny afternoons spent with loved ones, enjoying good food and great company.

Discover the ultimate comfort food with these Finger-Lickin' Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks. Perfect for any occasion, these tender and juicy drumsticks deliver mouthwatering flavors reminiscent of warm summer gatherings. Learn how to achieve crispy skin and a delicious BBQ glaze using simple ingredients and effective baking techniques. With versatile seasoning options and side dish pairings, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy the joy of serving up this delightful homemade dish!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken drumsticks

1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top.

Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken drumsticks under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy.

Seasoning Mixture: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well until a paste forms.

Coat Drumsticks: Add the drumsticks to the bowl and toss them in the seasoning mixture until fully coated. Make sure to cover each piece generously for maximum flavor.

Bake the Chicken: Arrange the coated drumsticks on the wire rack in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching each other. This allows for even cooking and crispy skin. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

Glaze with BBQ Sauce: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the drumsticks from the oven and brush each one generously with BBQ sauce. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Final Glaze: For an extra sticky BBQ glaze, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning!

Serve: Once cooked, take the drumsticks out of the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy: Serve warm with your favorite sides, like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a crisp green salad. These drumsticks are perfect for parties and gatherings!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings