Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the irresistible allure of BBQ chicken drumsticks. These tender, juicy pieces of chicken are not only packed with flavor but also bring a nostalgic sense of warmth and home to any gathering. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors creates a taste experience that is both exciting and satisfying, making these drumsticks a standout option for family dinners, backyard barbecues, or casual get-togethers.

Discover the delicious world of Sweet & Spicy Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks! Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these drumsticks are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The unique blend of sweet brown sugar and spicy seasonings creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and bake, this recipe allows you to impress without hours in the kitchen. Try pairing with coleslaw or cornbread for a complete meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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Ingredients

2 pounds chicken drumsticks

1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice, homemade or store-bought)

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon chili powder

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top.

Prepare the Drumsticks: Rinse the chicken drumsticks under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better.

Seasoning Mixture: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a thick paste.

Coat Drumsticks: In a large mixing bowl, add the drumsticks and the seasoning mixture. Toss well until each drumstick is evenly coated.

Arrange on Rack: Place the coated drumsticks on the prepared wire rack. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, promoting an even and crispy bake.

First Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

Add BBQ Sauce: After 25 minutes, remove the drumsticks from the oven and brush both sides generously with BBQ sauce. Reserve some sauce for glazing later.

Final Bake: Return the drumsticks to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C) and the skin is caramelized.

Glaze and Serve: In the last few minutes, brush on another layer of BBQ sauce if desired, then remove from the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before garnishing with freshly chopped parsley.

Enjoy: Serve your baked BBQ chicken drumsticks with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw or cornbread.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 4-6