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Crispy Oven BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Family Pack

crispy oven bbq chicken drumsticks - featured image

A quick and easy oven-baked BBQ chicken drumsticks recipe that delivers crispy skin and juicy meat with a tangy, smoky homemade BBQ sauce. Perfect for family gatherings and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 810 chicken drumsticks, skin-on and bone-in, preferably fresh or thawed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt (kosher salt preferred)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
  2. Pat dry the chicken drumsticks with paper towels to remove moisture.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder (if using), and brown sugar.
  4. Drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks, then toss them in the seasoning mix until evenly coated.
  5. Arrange the drumsticks spaced apart on the wire rack to allow air circulation.
  6. Bake uncovered for 35 minutes, turning the drumsticks halfway through cooking.
  7. While the chicken roasts, mix BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey in a small bowl to prepare the glaze.
  8. Remove the tray from the oven and brush the drumsticks generously with the glaze. Return to the oven for another 10-12 minutes, basting once more halfway through.
  9. Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). The sauce should be sticky and slightly caramelized.
  10. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Notes

Patting the drumsticks dry before seasoning is crucial for crispy skin. Use a wire rack to allow air circulation and avoid overcrowding the pan. For extra crispiness, finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes but watch closely to prevent burning. Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken, oven baked chicken, crispy chicken drumsticks, family dinner, easy BBQ recipe, smoky chicken, weeknight dinner