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If there’s one dish that brings families and friends together around the dinner table, it’s undoubtedly oven-baked BBQ chicken drumsticks. The allure of tender, juicy chicken coated in a rich, tangy barbecue sauce is simply irresistible. Whether you're hosting a casual gathering or simply enjoying a weeknight meal, these drumsticks are a surefire crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Discover the perfect oven-baked BBQ chicken drumsticks that will bring everyone to the dinner table! This easy recipe features juicy, tender chicken coated in a rich, tangy barbecue sauce. Ideal for weeknight meals or summer gatherings, these drumsticks can be paired with delicious sides like coleslaw and cornbread. With a hands-off cooking approach and a crowd-pleasing flavor, they are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy a delightful culinary experience today!
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Ingredients
  

2 lbs chicken drumsticks

1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)

Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and place a wire rack on top of the sheet.

    Prepare the Drumsticks: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps crisp the skin during baking.

      Make the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and honey (if using). Mix well until a paste forms.

        Coat the Chicken: Add the drumsticks to the bowl and toss them in the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

          Bake the Drumsticks: Arrange the marinated drumsticks on the wire rack, ensuring they are not touching each other for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.

            Apply BBQ Sauce: After 35 minutes, remove the drumsticks from the oven and baste them generously with barbecue sauce on all sides. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the skin is caramelized and sticky.

              Check for Doneness: The internal temperature of the drumsticks should reach at least 165°F (74°C). If they need more time, check every 5 minutes.

                Finish and Serve: Once fully cooked, remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings

                    30 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings