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Easy 3-Ingredient BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe for Juicy Flavor

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A simple and flavorful recipe for juicy BBQ chicken drumsticks using just three main ingredients. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds or 900 grams), skin-on
  • 1 cup (240 ml) smoky, slightly sweet barbecue sauce (e.g., Sweet Baby Ray’s or Stubb’s)
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to make the seasoning mix.
  3. Pat dry the chicken drumsticks with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  4. Place drumsticks in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle the seasoning mix over them. Toss until evenly coated.
  5. Arrange the drumsticks on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. If you don’t have a rack, place drumsticks directly on the lined baking sheet.
  6. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
  7. Remove from oven and brush generously with about half of the barbecue sauce.
  8. Return to oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Optional: Brush on remaining barbecue sauce and broil for 2-3 minutes to caramelize the sauce, watching closely to avoid burning.
  10. Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps achieve crispy skin. Use a wire rack for even heat circulation and crispiness. Watch the sauce carefully during broiling to prevent burning. Rest the drumsticks after cooking to lock in juices. You can substitute chicken thighs or wings, adjusting cooking time accordingly. For a grilled version, cook over medium heat for 25-30 minutes, basting with sauce during the last 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken, chicken drumsticks, easy recipe, barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, quick dinner, juicy chicken