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BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Perfectly cooked BBQ chicken drumsticks that fall off the bone with a smoky, tender texture and irresistible caramelized glaze.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2.5 pounds)
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce, divided
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Method
 

  1. Combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne in a small bowl to create the dry rub seasoning mix.
  2. Pat the chicken drumsticks completely dry with paper towels. Brush each drumstick with olive oil, then generously coat with the seasoning mixture.
  3. Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place drumsticks on the prepared sheet, ensuring they don't touch each other.
  4. Bake for 25 minutes without opening the oven door until drumsticks develop a rich, golden color.
  5. Remove from oven and brush each drumstick with half the barbecue sauce. Return to oven for 8-10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F and glaze appears glossy and caramelized. Reserve remaining sauce for serving.

Notes

Season the drumsticks the night before for deeper flavor penetration. Pat drumsticks completely dry before seasoning for crispy skin. Don't overcrowd the pan and avoid flipping multiple times. Apply barbecue sauce only in the last 8-10 minutes to prevent burning. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes to restore crispy skin.