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Easy Crispy One-Pan Oven BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

oven BBQ chicken drumsticks - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy, juicy oven-baked BBQ chicken drumsticks with a smoky-sweet glaze, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds / 900 grams), skin-on and bone-in
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon (5 grams) garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon (5 grams) onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon (5 grams) smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon (5 grams) salt (kosher salt preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2 grams) freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey or brown sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Toss well to coat every drumstick evenly.
  4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
  5. Arrange the drumsticks skin-side up on the baking sheet, spacing them at least an inch apart.
  6. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes to crisp the skin.
  7. Remove from the oven and brush each drumstick generously with BBQ sauce.
  8. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is caramelized but not burnt.
  9. Optional: Broil the drumsticks for 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  10. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices and set the sauce.

Notes

Pat the chicken skin dry before seasoning to ensure crispiness. Apply BBQ sauce near the end of baking to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F/74°C). Let the chicken rest before serving. For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end. Adjust cooking time if using chicken thighs or wings. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken, oven-baked chicken, crispy chicken drumsticks, one-pan dinner, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, BBQ drumsticks