Juicy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Juicy, smoky, tender, and coated in a delicious BBQ glaze, these BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for a family dinner, weekend cookout, or casual gathering.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top if desired.
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Place them in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning over the chicken and toss until evenly coated.
- Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 30 minutes, turning the drumsticks halfway through cooking.
- Meanwhile, mix the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl.
- Brush the chicken generously with the BBQ glaze and return it to the oven. Bake for another 10–15 minutes, brushing with more sauce halfway through.
- For an extra smoky and caramelized finish, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching carefully so the sauce does not burn.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce, coleslaw, roasted potatoes, corn, or your favorite side dishes.
Tip
For perfectly cooked chicken, the thickest part of the drumstick should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).