Nothing says summer like a platter of BBQ Chicken Drumsticks, but honestly, they’re great all year round. Whether you’re firing up the grill or working with your oven, this recipe delivers crispy skin, tender meat, and that caramelized BBQ glaze we all love. And with the option to add a touch of honey, you get a perfectly sweet-and-smoky balance that sticks to your fingers and keeps everyone coming back for more.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is the best of both worlds: it’s flexible enough to work on the grill or in your oven and easy enough to scale for a crowd. The dry rub adds flavor all the way through, and the final BBQ glaze gives it that sweet, sticky finish that makes BBQ chicken so craveable. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a weekend cookout, this one never fails.
Ingredients
- 2 kg (4.4 lbs) chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp honey (optional, for extra caramelization)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels—this helps them crisp up better during cooking.
2. Season
In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Toss the drumsticks to coat evenly.
Option 1: Grill Method
3. Grill the Drumsticks
Preheat grill to medium heat (350–400°F / 175–200°C). Grill drumsticks for 25–30 minutes, turning every 5 minutes.
4. Glaze & Finish
Brush with BBQ sauce (mixed with honey, if using). Grill an additional 5 minutes, turning to caramelize all sides. Internal temp should reach 75°C/165°F.
Option 2: Oven Method
3. Bake the Drumsticks
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a tray with foil or parchment. Bake drumsticks for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Broil for the Glaze
Brush drumsticks with BBQ sauce and broil for 5 minutes to get that sticky, charred finish.
5. Rest and Serve
Let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices. Serve hot with your favorite BBQ sides!
Tips for Success
- Dry chicken well for the crispiest results.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F/75°C is your magic number.
- Add BBQ sauce only at the end to avoid burning.
- Batch it—this recipe is perfect for meal prep or party platters.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Pair with Crockpot Nacho Dip for a cheesy starter.
- Add Dorito Casserole to the table for the ultimate comfort side.
- Keep it handheld with Sheet Pan Quesadillas.
- Sip on iced lemonade, or add Beer Cheese Dip for dipping those crispy drumstick ends.
- Finish with Copycat Neiman Marcus Cookies for sweet, soft cookie goodness.
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 180°C (350°F) to retain crispness.
- Freeze cooked drumsticks for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat.
- Leftover meat is amazing shredded in tacos, salads, or wraps!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- This Crockpot Nacho Dip Is the Reason I Never Have Leftovers
- This Dorito Casserole Is My Favorite Weeknight Dinner Shortcut
- This Beer Cheese Dip Is My Favorite Party Starter That Disappears in Minutes
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas Are My Favorite Way to Feed a Crowd Fast
- These Copycat Neiman Marcus Chocolate Chip Cookies Are My Secret Weapon Dessert
Final Thoughts
These BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are all about juicy meat, crispy skin, and that sticky-sweet BBQ finish. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or roasting indoors, they come out irresistible every time. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just when you’re craving that smoky backyard flavor—any day of the week.
Tried them? Tag us @ChefManiac and show off your drumstick platter—we’ll be drooling!
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