These oven-baked BBQ chicken drumsticks are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a rich, sticky barbecue sauce. They're affordable, easy to make, and always a family favorite.
- Budget-friendly dinner
- Simple ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep
- Kid-friendly
- Great for cookouts and weeknight dinners
Ingredients
- 3 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ cups barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions
Step 1
Preheat oven to 425°F.
Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
Step 2
Pat drumsticks dry.
Toss with:
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt
- Pepper
Step 3
Arrange drumsticks on the rack.
Bake for 35 minutes.
Step 4
Mix barbecue sauce and brown sugar.
Brush generously over the chicken.
Step 5
Return to oven for 15-20 minutes until caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 175-185°F.
Step 6
Brush with additional sauce before serving.
What To Serve With BBQ Chicken Legs
- Southern Baked Beans
- Southern Coleslaw
- Potato Salad
- Deviled Eggs
- Corn Casserole
- Baked Mac and Cheese
FAQ
How long do chicken legs take to bake?
Chicken drumsticks typically take 45-55 minutes at 425°F.
What temperature should chicken legs reach?
For the best texture, cook drumsticks to 175-185°F.
Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce?
Yes. Sweet Baby Ray's, Kinders, and Stubbs all work well.