Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Chicken drumsticks: These are the main protein for the dish, providing a juicy and flavorful base for the bbq sauce.

Bbq sauce: This adds a smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor to the chicken drumsticks. Choose a sauce that matches your taste preference.

Olive oil: Used to coat the chicken drumsticks before baking, helping them to crisp up and adding a subtle richness.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and bbq sauce.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the seasoning of the chicken drumsticks.

To ensure your chicken drumsticks are evenly cooked and have a crispy skin, make sure to pat them dry with paper towels before tossing them in olive oil, salt, and black pepper. This step removes excess moisture, allowing the seasoning to adhere better and the skin to crisp up nicely in the oven.

• chicken drumsticks - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a suitable alternative.

• chicken drumsticks - Substitute with turkey drumsticks: Turkey drumsticks are larger but offer a similar taste and can be cooked in the same manner.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce provides a sweet and savory flavor that complements the chicken well.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with honey mustard sauce: Honey mustard offers a tangy and sweet flavor that pairs nicely with baked chicken.

• olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties, making it a good alternative.

• olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, suitable for baking.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral taste.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.

• black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a spicier kick, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

• Allow the chicken drumsticks to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the chicken soggy.

• Transfer the cooled drumsticks to an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, place a piece of parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

• For freezing, wrap each drumstick individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help maintain their flavor and prevent freezer burn.

• Place the wrapped drumsticks in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of storage time.

• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the drumsticks in the refrigerator overnight.

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the bbq sauce is bubbly.

• For a quick reheat, you can also use the microwave. Place the drumsticks on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking and turning halfway through.

• Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving, to ensure it is safe to eat.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through and the bbq sauce is bubbly.

• Microwave Method: Place the drumsticks in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small corner open for steam to escape. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. If needed, continue heating in 30-second intervals until hot.

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Place the drumsticks in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and the bbq sauce is caramelized.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is hot and the bbq sauce is slightly crispy.

• Slow Cooker Method: Place the drumsticks in the slow cooker. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep them moist. Cover and heat on low for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is thoroughly warmed.

• Oven: Used to bake the chicken drumsticks at the specified temperature.

• Baking sheet: Holds the chicken drumsticks while they bake in the oven.

• Parchment paper: Lines the baking sheet to prevent the chicken from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

• Mixing bowl: Used to toss the chicken drumsticks with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.

• Basting brush: Used to brush the BBQ sauce onto the chicken drumsticks.

• Tongs: Helps to handle the hot drumsticks when removing them from the oven.

• Measuring cup: Measures the BBQ sauce accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Measures the olive oil, salt, and black pepper accurately.

• Oven mitts: Protects your hands when handling hot items from the oven.

Marinate in advance: Marinate the chicken drumsticks with olive oil, salt, and black pepper the night before to save time on prep day.

Use pre-made sauce: Opt for a high-quality store-bought bbq sauce to cut down on preparation time.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper to line your baking sheet for easy cleanup.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Preheat oven: Preheat your oven while you prep the chicken to streamline the cooking process.