Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are a crowd-pleaser that combines crispy skin, tender meat, and a deliciously smoky flavor. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum taste. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, you’ll find this recipe approachable and fun. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into the details of preparing these mouthwatering drumsticks!
How to Make Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients Needed for Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce (such as Sweet Baby Ray’s), or more to taste
Step-by-Step Directions for Baking BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
- Preheat the Oven: First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures an even cooking temperature for your chicken.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with foil. This will help catch any drippings and makes cleaning up a breeze.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the olive oil with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. This spice mix gives the chicken its flavorful kick.
- Coat the Drumsticks: Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the spice mixture. Make sure each piece is well-covered for maximum flavor.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated drumsticks evenly on the prepared baking sheet. It’s important not to overcrowd them so they cook evenly.
- Initial Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. This step helps to start cooking the chicken and getting that skin crispy.
- Add BBQ Sauce: After 20 minutes, remove the drumsticks from the oven. Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce on top of each piece.
- Bake Again: Return the drumsticks to the oven and bake for 7-8 minutes. This allows the sauce to caramelize a bit.
- Flip and Brush Again: Carefully flip the drumsticks over, brush with more BBQ sauce, and bake for an additional 7-8 minutes.
- Broil for Crispiness: Set the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and turn on the broiler. Brush the drumsticks with more sauce, and broil for 3-4 minutes on each side. This will give the chicken a nice char and crisp finish. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety!
Tips for Perfectly Cooked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This tool is invaluable for checking the internal temperature. It’s the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked safely without drying it out.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let your drumsticks rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a moist and flavorful bite.
- Adjust the Spice: If you love spice, feel free to increase the cayenne pepper in the mix. Alternatively, you can reduce it for a milder flavor.
- Experiment with Sauces: While BBQ sauce is delicious, consider experimenting with different flavors like teriyaki or honey mustard for variation.
Variations of Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
- Sweet and Spicy: Add honey to your BBQ sauce for a touch of sweetness balanced with a hint of heat.
- Herb-Infused: Include dried herbs like thyme or rosemary in your spice mix for an aromatic twist.
- Sticky Asian Style: Swap the BBQ for a sweet soy glaze, and add sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Recommended Sides to Serve with Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Pairing your BBQ chicken drumsticks with the right sides can elevate the whole meal. Consider the following options:
- Coleslaw: The crispy crunch and tangy flavor provide a refreshing contrast to rich chicken.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, it’s a classic summer favorite that complements the smoky notes.
- Baked Beans: Their sweetness and hearty texture harmonize beautifully with BBQ flavors.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy, seasoned potato wedges will make your meal hearty and satisfying.
Storing and Reheating Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
To store leftover drumsticks, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but this might not keep the skin crispy.
Nutritional Information for Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Here’s a quick summary of the nutritional values per serving to help you keep track of your dietary goals:
- Calories: 725
- Fat: 39g (50% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 8g (41% DV)
- Cholesterol: 184mg (61% DV)
- Sodium: 2236mg (97% DV)
- Carbohydrates: 46g (17% DV)
- Fiber: 1g (4% DV)
- Protein: 44g (88% DV)
- Potassium: 748mg (16% DV)
Enjoy your culinary adventure with these Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks! They are not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making them a fantastic addition to any meal. Happy cooking!