Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

These oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks are the perfect combination of crispy skin and juicy meat, making them an irresistible choice for any gathering. Their bold, smoky flavor comes from a delightful spice rub and a generous coating of barbecue sauce. With minimal prep time, these drumsticks are ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 5 minutes of prep time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal.
• Crispy and Juicy: Achieve that perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat with simple baking techniques.
• Versatile Flavors: The spice rub and BBQ sauce can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chicken drumsticks! They are easy to eat and perfect for both kids and adults.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week or to serve at parties.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting this delicious recipe, it’s important to have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for cooking the chicken evenly without mess.
• Aluminum foil: Helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking, ensuring your drumsticks come off easily after baking.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining spices and oil efficiently before applying them to the chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Drumsticks

• 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
• 1 cup BBQ sauce

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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 for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps achieve that crispy skin when baking.

Step 3: Mix the Spice Rub

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

Stir until well mixed.

Step 4: Season the Drumsticks

Rub the spice mixture evenly over all the drumsticks to ensure each piece is well coated.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.

Step 6: Bake Initial Time

Bake in preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until chicken is nearly cooked through.

Step 7: Add BBQ Sauce

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

Step 8: Final Bake

Return to oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165℉ and BBQ sauce is caramelized.

Step 9: 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

Serving oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks can elevate your meal and impress your guests. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

Casual Gatherings

• Serve with Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the chicken.
• Include Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly, soaking up any extra BBQ sauce.

Family Dinners

• Plate with Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the crispy drumsticks well.
• Add Grilled Vegetables: Colorful grilled veggies provide a nutritious side that enhances the meal’s appeal.

Game Day Snacks

• Offer with Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are a great finger food option for any gathering.
• Create a BBQ Platter: Serve drumsticks alongside other BBQ favorites like ribs and sausages for variety.

How to Perfect Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Perfecting oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks takes just a few simple tips. Follow these guidelines to achieve the best results.

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you generously coat the drumsticks with the spice rub for maximum flavor.
• Pat dry before seasoning: This helps the skin get crispy during baking, creating that desired texture.
• Use high-quality BBQ sauce: A good sauce enhances the flavor profile; choose one you love!
• Monitor cooking time: Every oven is different, so start checking for doneness around 25 minutes.
• Let them rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps retain juices, making them even juicier.

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Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Pairing sides with oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options.

1. Baked Beans: Hearty and sweet, baked beans complement the smoky flavors of the chicken.
2. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac & cheese is a comforting side that kids and adults will love.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and crunch, perfect for summer meals.
4. Garden Salad: A fresh salad provides a nice contrast to the rich flavors of BBQ chicken.
5. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice makes an interesting pairing that adds texture and taste.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: These add a hint of sweetness and are great for dipping in extra BBQ sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks even better. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Skipping the Drying Step: Not patting the chicken dry can lead to soggy skin. Make sure to use paper towels to remove excess moisture before seasoning.
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many drumsticks too close together prevents even cooking. Arrange them with space in between for optimal crispiness.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Failing to check the chicken’s internal temperature can result in undercooked meat. Always aim for 165℉ for safe consumption.
• Using Low-Quality BBQ Sauce: Low-quality sauce can ruin the flavor of your dish. Choose a good quality barbecue sauce that complements the spices you used.
• Not Letting It Rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after baking can let all the juices escape. Allow it to rest for a few minutes to retain moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep in an airtight container: Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Use parchment paper: If stacking, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

• Wrap individually: Wrap each drumstick in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
• Label and date: Make sure to label your bag with the date. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉ and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

The chicken typically takes about 25-30 minutes at 400℉, followed by an additional 10-15 minutes after applying BBQ sauce.

Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen drumsticks, but they should be fully thawed before seasoning and baking for best results.

What is the best BBQ sauce for oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks?

Choose a sauce that matches your taste preference, whether it’s sweet, tangy, or spicy. Homemade sauces can also be a great option!

Can I make oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them earlier in the day and reheat them just before serving for convenience.

Are there any variations I can try with this recipe?

Feel free to customize the spice rub or experiment with different barbecue sauces according to your preferences!

Final Thoughts

These oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious! Their crispy exterior and juicy interior make them perfect for any occasion. Plus, you can easily customize this recipe with different spices or sauces based on your taste. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!