Introduction
Looking for a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make dinner? Look no further than classic BBQ baked chicken drumsticks! This recipe combines the smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce with the tender, juicy goodness of perfectly baked chicken. It’s a weeknight winner and a party favorite, and best of all, it’s incredibly simple to prepare. Forget complicated recipes and spend more time enjoying your meal and company. This recipe is a surefire way to satisfy any barbecue craving, any time of year.
Perfecting Your BBQ Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 12 Chicken Drumsticks (about 3 pounds)
- 1 cup BBQ Sauce (your favorite brand or homemade!)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps them get nice and crispy.
- Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the drumsticks with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure each drumstick is evenly coated.
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange the seasoned drumsticks in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Bake for 30 minutes.
- Add BBQ Sauce: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Brush the drumsticks generously with BBQ sauce.
- Continue Baking: Return the drumsticks to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is caramelized.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender and flavorful meat.
Tips for Extra Flavor and Texture
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For an even bolder flavor, marinate the chicken drumsticks in the BBQ sauce mixture for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) in the refrigerator before baking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: An instant-read meat thermometer is your best friend! It ensures the chicken is cooked through perfectly without drying out.
- Get that Crispy Skin: For extra crispy skin, broil the drumsticks for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Homemade BBQ Sauce: Consider making your own BBQ sauce for a truly personalized flavor. There are tons of recipes online for different styles!
Serving Suggestions
These BBQ baked chicken drumsticks are incredibly versatile. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Classic Sides: Serve them with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, potato salad, or baked beans.
- Light and Fresh: Pair them with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a lighter meal.
- Game Day Grub: They’re perfect for game day gatherings! Serve them with chips, dips, and your favorite beverages.
- Sandwich Time: Shred the chicken and pile it on buns for delicious BBQ chicken sandwiches.
Conclusion
Classic BBQ baked chicken drumsticks are a simple yet satisfying meal that everyone will love. With minimal effort and readily available ingredients, you can create a flavorful and memorable dish. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, fire up the oven and get ready to enjoy the irresistible taste of BBQ-baked perfection!
