Savory BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup of low-sodium BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade – see note below)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Homemade BBQ Sauce Option:

• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

Step 1: Prep The Marinade

1. Combine Flavors: In a large mixing bowl, combine BBQ sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended. If using the homemade BBQ sauce, combine the tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in another bowl. Mix it until smooth, then add it to the main bowl with the other ingredients.

2. Season The Drumsticks: Add salt and pepper to taste to the marinade. Thoroughly coat the chicken drumsticks with the marinade, ensuring each piece is well covered. For best results, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the drumsticks marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, giving you ultra-flavorful BBQ chicken.

Step 2: Cooking The Drumsticks

1. Preheat The Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to preheat while your chicken marinates.

2. Prepare A Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy clean-up. Arrange the chicken drumsticks in a single layer on the prepared sheet.

3. Bake The Chicken: Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. After 20 minutes, take the baking sheet out and brush the drumsticks with more BBQ sauce, turning them over to ensure even cooking, then return to the oven for another 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Crisp The Drumsticks: For a lovely caramelized finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

2. Rest And Serve: Once baked, remove the drumsticks from the oven. Let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to settle before serving.

3. Garnish (Optional): If desired, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the drumsticks to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.

Recipe Summary

• Calorie Count: Approximately 210 calories per drumstick (with store-bought BBQ sauce).
• Preparation and Cooking Time: About 1.5 – 2 hours, including marinating time.

Enjoy these mouthwatering BBQ chicken drumsticks at your next gathering or family dinner. They’re not just delicious; they’re easy to make, and they’re sure to be everyone’s favorite! Whether using a homemade sauce or a trusted store-bought version, these drumsticks promise to deliver a zesty, flavorful bite every time. Happy cooking!