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Crispy Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe Easy Sweet Glaze Tutorial

crispy baked bbq chicken drumsticks - featured image

This recipe delivers crispy baked chicken drumsticks coated in a perfectly balanced sweet BBQ glaze. It’s easy, quick, and a crowd-pleaser with a crispy skin and juicy meat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds / 900 grams), skin on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste (kosher salt recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • ¾ cup BBQ sauce (about 6 fl oz / 180 ml), thick and smoky
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
  3. Place drumsticks in a large mixing bowl.
  4. Add olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder (if using). Toss well to coat evenly.
  5. Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and arrange drumsticks spaced apart on the rack.
  6. Bake the drumsticks in the oven for 25 minutes without glaze.
  7. While baking, mix BBQ sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl until smooth.
  8. After 25 minutes, brush the drumsticks generously with the sweet glaze.
  9. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, basting once more halfway through.
  10. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  11. Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat the drumsticks dry before seasoning to ensure crispiness. Use a wire rack to allow air circulation and prevent soggy skin. Apply the glaze halfway through baking to avoid burning. If flare-ups occur, tent loosely with foil. Rest the chicken 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices. For gluten-free or vegan glaze, use gluten-free BBQ sauce and maple syrup instead of honey.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken, baked chicken drumsticks, crispy chicken, sweet glaze, easy dinner, weeknight meal, BBQ recipe