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Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks - Quick Weeknight Dinner Recipe

These easy baked BBQ chicken drumsticks are a delicious, family-friendly dinner that comes together in under 40 minutes with minimal prep and maximum flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this fuss-free meal delivers juicy, tender chicken with a sweet and tangy barbecue glaze that everyone will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 8-10 chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and promotes better browning.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Rub this mixture evenly over all sides of the drumsticks.
  4. Arrange the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they're not touching. Bake for 25 minutes.
  5. While the chicken bakes, whisk together the barbecue sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
  6. After 25 minutes, remove the chicken from the oven and brush generously with the barbecue sauce mixture. Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
  7. Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Notes

For extra crispy skin: Place drumsticks on a wire rack over the baking sheet. Customize flavor with cayenne pepper or Worcestershire sauce. Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving for juicier results.