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BBQ chicken drumsticks have long been a beloved staple at summer cookouts and family gatherings, celebrated for their succulent flavor and satisfying crunch. This comfort food classic is not just a crowd-pleaser but also an incredibly versatile dish that can adapt to various flavor profiles, making it suitable for any palate. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can transform humble chicken drumsticks into a smoky, sweet delight that rivals any restaurant's offering—all from the comfort of your home.

Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Indulge in the smoky, sweet flavors of these oven-baked BBQ chicken drumsticks! With a perfect blend of spices and your favorite BBQ sauce, these drumsticks are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Ideal for a family dinner or a weekend barbecue, they come together easily in just 50 minutes. Simply marinate, bake, and finish with a delicious glaze for a finger-licking meal. Perfectly garnished with fresh herbs and served with extra BBQ sauce!
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Ingredients
  

2 lbs chicken drumsticks

1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for tang)

Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to allow air circulation around the drumsticks.

    Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper (if using), and apple cider vinegar. Mix until well blended.

      Coat the Drumsticks: Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them thoroughly until all the drumsticks are evenly coated with the marinade.

        Arrange on Rack: Place the marinated drumsticks on the wire rack, leaving some space between each piece to ensure even cooking.

          Bake in the Oven: Bake the drumsticks in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

            BBQ Glaze: After 25 minutes, remove the drumsticks from the oven and brush a generous layer of BBQ sauce on each drumstick. Return them to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C) and the BBQ sauce begins to caramelize.

              Final Broil (Optional): For a crispy finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

                Serve: Once done, remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4