Oven BBQ chicken drumsticks are a classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for a simple weeknight meal, these chicken drumsticks are sure to please. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make tender, juicy chicken drumsticks with a homemade BBQ sauce that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients for Oven BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Oven BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Drumsticks
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chicken drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Season them with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the BBQ Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
- Cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Drumsticks
- Brush half of the BBQ sauce over the chicken drumsticks, coating them evenly.
- Bake the chicken drumsticks in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are cooked through, brushing them with the remaining BBQ sauce halfway through the cooking time.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the oven BBQ chicken drumsticks hot, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions, if desired.
- These drumsticks are great on their own or served with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread.
About the Main Ingredients
Chicken Drumsticks
Chicken drumsticks are a flavorful and affordable cut of meat that is perfect for grilling, baking, or frying. They are dark meat, which means they are more tender and juicy than white meat cuts like chicken breasts. Drumsticks are also easy to eat with your hands, making them a fun and casual choice for a meal.
BBQ Sauce
The homemade BBQ sauce in this recipe is what takes these chicken drumsticks to the next level. It’s a sweet and tangy sauce with a hint of smokiness from the paprika. The ketchup provides a rich tomato base, while the brown sugar adds sweetness and helps to caramelize the sauce. The apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce add depth of flavor, and the Dijon mustard adds a bit of heat and tanginess.
By following this recipe, you can create delicious oven BBQ chicken drumsticks that are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. The homemade BBQ sauce is easy to make and adds a flavorful twist to this classic dish. Serve these drumsticks at your next gathering or enjoy them as a simple and satisfying weeknight meal.
