Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

These oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks are perfect for any occasion, from a cozy weeknight dinner to a festive gathering. With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, they deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite. Coated in a flavorful spice rub and topped with a rich barbecue sauce, these drumsticks promise to impress your family and friends alike. The simplicity of the recipe makes it easy to whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

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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
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
• Step 3: Dry the Drumsticks
• Step 4: Mix the Spice Rub
• Step 5: Season the Chicken
• Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheet
• Step 7: Bake Initial Phase
• Step 8: Add BBQ Sauce
• Step 9: Final Bake
• Step 10: Serve Warm
• How to Serve Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
• On a Platter
• With Dipping Sauces
• In Tacos
• As Part of a Salad
• With Sliced Bread
• 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
• How do I get crispy skin on my oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks?
• Can I use other cuts of chicken?
• What type of BBQ sauce works best?
• How long should I bake these drumsticks?
• Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: Achieve a delightful crunch on the outside while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside.
• Bold Flavors: The blend of spices and BBQ sauce creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Easy Preparation: Minimal effort is required, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for serving at parties, barbecues, or as a comforting family meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy these flavorful drumsticks, making them a hit across age groups.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools for making these oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides even heating for the chicken, ensuring it cooks thoroughly and evenly.
• Aluminum foil: Makes for easy cleanup and helps retain moisture during cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients so that the spice rub coats every drumstick evenly.
• Basting brush: Helps apply BBQ sauce generously for that perfect glaze.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 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

For the Sauce

• 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 your oven to 400℉. This temperature ensures that your drumsticks cook through while developing that desired crispiness.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. This step not only aids in cleanup but also prevents sticking.

Step 3: Dry the Drumsticks

Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture allows for better browning during baking.

Step 4: Mix the Spice Rub

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

Mix well until combined.

Step 5: Season the Chicken

Rub the oil and spice mixture evenly over all of the drumsticks, ensuring each piece is well-coated.

Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the seasoned drumsticks on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they have space between them for even cooking.

Step 7: Bake Initial Phase

Bake in your preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until nearly cooked through. You want them just shy of being fully done at this stage.

Step 8: Add BBQ Sauce

Remove the chicken from the oven and generously brush each drumstick with BBQ sauce before returning them to bake.

Step 9: Final Bake

Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165℉ and the BBQ sauce has caramelized beautifully.

Step 10: Serve Warm

Let rest for a few minutes before serving warm. Enjoy these flavorful oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks hot from the oven!

How to Serve Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Serving oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks can elevate any meal. Whether for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these drumsticks are sure to impress. Here are some creative ways to serve them.

On a Platter

• Arrange the drumsticks on a large platter for a beautiful centerpiece. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added color and flavor.

With Dipping Sauces

• Serve alongside a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, blue cheese, or additional BBQ sauce. This adds an interactive element to your meal.

In Tacos

• Shred the cooked chicken and use it as a filling for tacos. Top with slaw and avocado for a delightful twist on traditional taco night.

As Part of a Salad

• Slice the drumsticks and add them to a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and your favorite dressing for a hearty meal.

With Sliced Bread

• Serve the drumsticks with slices of crusty bread or rolls. This is perfect for soaking up any extra BBQ sauce that drips off!

How to Perfect Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

To achieve the best oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks, follow these tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Pat dry: Always pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps the skin become crispy during baking.
• Marinate: For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spice mix or BBQ sauce for several hours before cooking.
• Use high heat: Baking at 400℉ ensures that the outside gets crispy while keeping the inside juicy.
• Flip halfway: Turn the drumsticks halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispiness on all sides.
• Rest before serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spices or add your favorites like cayenne pepper or cumin for personalized flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Pairing side dishes with oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks can enhance your meal experience. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Coleslaw: A classic pairing that provides crunch and tanginess, balancing out the rich flavors of the chicken.
2. Cornbread: This sweet, fluffy bread complements BBQ beautifully and is perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
3. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans add protein and sweetness, creating a delicious contrast to savory chicken.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn bring freshness to your plate.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side that everyone loves.
6. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad offers coolness against warm chicken and is always a crowd-pleaser.
7. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf can soak up juices from the chicken while adding an aromatic element to your meal.
8. Pickles: Adding pickles brings acidity and crunch, contrasting nicely with the rich flavors of BBQ chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people struggle with getting their oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks just right. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not drying the chicken: Failing to pat your drumsticks dry can result in soggy skin. Make sure to use paper towels before seasoning.
• Skipping the spice rub: Some skip this step, thinking BBQ sauce is enough. A good spice rub enhances flavor. Don’t skip it for the best results!
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many drumsticks together can cause uneven cooking. Arrange them in a single layer for even heat distribution.
• Using low-quality BBQ sauce: Not all sauces are created equal. Opt for a high-quality BBQ sauce for richer flavor and better caramelization.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Cooking without checking internal temperature can lead to undercooked chicken. Always ensure it reaches 165℉ before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

• Wrap each drumstick tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

• Oven: Preheat to 350℉, place drumsticks on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get crispy skin on my oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks?

Crispy skin comes from drying the chicken thoroughly before seasoning and baking at a higher temperature. Avoid overcrowding your baking sheet as well.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes! While this recipe uses drumsticks, you can also use thighs or wings. Adjust cooking time depending on the cut used.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

A thick, rich BBQ sauce usually works best for roasting. Look for one that has good flavor and is not overly watery.

How long should I bake these drumsticks?

Bake your oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks for about 25–30 minutes initially, then add more time after applying the BBQ sauce until they reach an internal temperature of 165℉.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating overnight allows flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat. Just remember to pat them dry before applying the spice rub.

Final Thoughts

These oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, they allow room for customization with different spices or sauces. Give this recipe a try and enjoy tender, flavorful chicken that everyone will love!

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