Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

These Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are a delightful treat that everyone will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, these drumsticks combine crispy skin with juicy meat, all infused with a smoky, savory flavor. With minimal effort, you can serve a dish that satisfies both young and old alike.

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Why You ll Love This Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

These drumsticks bring a variety of benefits to your dinner table.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, you ll have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
Flavorful Experience: The combination of spices and barbecue sauce creates a bold flavor that s sure to impress your family and guests.
Versatile Dish: These chicken drumsticks work well for any occasion whether it s a family dinner, picnic, or game day feast.
Healthier Option: Baking instead of frying reduces fat while still delivering crispy skin and juicy meat.
Budget-Friendly: Chicken drumsticks are affordable and can feed a crowd without breaking the bank.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Aluminum foil
Mixing bowl
Measuring spoons
Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides ample space for the chicken to cook evenly without overcrowding.
Aluminum foil: Makes cleanup easier by preventing sticking and helps retain moisture during cooking.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your spice rub ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

8 fresh chicken drumsticks

For the Spice Rub

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
Â½ teaspoon black pepper

For the BBQ Sauce

1 cup BBQ sauce

How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your 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. This helps 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: Season the Drumsticks

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

Step 5: Bake the Drumsticks

Arrange the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 30 minutes, or until nearly cooked through.

Step 6: Add BBQ Sauce

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

Step 7: Final Bake

Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 and the BBQ sauce has caramelized.

Step 8: Serve

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

These oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance your meal experience.

Casual Gatherings

With Coleslaw: A refreshing side that complements the smoky flavor of the drumsticks.
On a Bun: Create a BBQ chicken sandwich by placing the drumsticks in a soft bun and adding extra sauce.

Family Dinners

With Rice: Serve over a fluffy bed of rice to soak up the delicious BBQ sauce.
With Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.

Game Day Treats

As an Appetizer: Cut the drumsticks into smaller pieces for easy snacking during the game.
With Dipping Sauces: Offer various sauces like ranch or honey mustard for added flavor options.

How to Perfect Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

To make sure your oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks turn out perfect every time, consider these handy tips.

Bold Spice Rub: Apply a generous amount of spice rub for maximum flavor.
Pat Dry: Always pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve crispy skin.
Even Spacing: Place drumsticks with space between them on the baking sheet to allow even cooking.
Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165 .
Resting Time: Let the chicken rest after baking; this helps retain juices.

Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Pairing your oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and flavorful, these potatoes balance the smokiness of the chicken.
Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies adds color and nutrition to your plate.
Baked Beans: Sweet and savory beans complement the BBQ flavors wonderfully.
Caesar Salad: A crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich drumsticks.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a classic pairing that s perfect for summer meals.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are always a hit and easy to prepare alongside your chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

Skipping the Drying Step: Always pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps the skin become crispy during baking.
Not Seasoning Enough: Ensure you apply a generous amount of the spice rub. A well-seasoned drumstick enhances flavor and keeps them juicy.
Inaccurate Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven to 400 before baking. An incorrect temperature can lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken.
Ignoring Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 for safe consumption.
Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Arrange drumsticks in a single layer with space between each piece. Crowding can cause uneven cooking and prevent crispiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container.
They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

Wrap drumsticks tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

Oven: Preheat to 350 , place on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15 20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and cover. Heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I need to bake oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks?

Bake them at 400 for about 25 30 minutes before adding BBQ sauce, then another 10 15 minutes after saucing.

Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks?

Yes, but it s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better texture.

What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

A sweet and tangy BBQ sauce complements the spices beautifully. You can choose your favorite brand or make homemade sauce for an extra touch.

Can I use other parts of the chicken?

Absolutely! Drumsticks are great, but you can also use thighs or wings. Adjust cooking time based on the size of the pieces.

How do I know when my chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should read at least 165 when done.

Final Thoughts

These oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, they can be customized with different spices or sauces according to your preference. Give this recipe a try and enjoy deliciously crispy and juicy chicken!