BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

BBQ chicken drumsticks are a backyard classic—tender, juicy, and slathered in sticky, smoky-sweet barbecue sauce. Whether you're grilling, baking, or broiling, this crowd-pleaser is perfect for summer cookouts, weeknight dinners, or game day gatherings. Just add your favorite sides, and you’ve got a no-fuss, flavor-packed meal everyone will love.

Ingredients

2–3 lbs chicken drumsticks (about 8–10 pieces)

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular)

½ tsp onion powder

1½ cups BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)

 Instructions

Oven-Baked Method:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top (optional, for crispier skin).

Season the drumsticks

Pat chicken dry. Rub with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder.

Bake

Arrange drumsticks on the rack or baking sheet. Bake for 35 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Add BBQ sauce

Remove from oven and brush generously with BBQ sauce. Return to oven and bake another 10–15 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 175°F and sauce is caramelized.

Optional Broil

For extra char, broil on high for 2–3 minutes—but watch closely!