Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
These oven baked BBQ chicken drumsticks are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with smoky, savory flavor. Coated in a bold spice rub and finished with a sticky-sweet layer of caramelized barbecue sauce, they’re a low-effort, high-reward dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual cookouts.
Servings: 4
Calories: 439kcal
Ingredients
- 8 fresh chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil extra-virgin recommended
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400℉. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and set aside.
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over all the drumsticks.
- Arrange the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through.
- Remove the drumsticks from the oven and generously brush each one with BBQ sauce.
- Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165℉ and the sauce has caramelized.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving warm.