Save Tender, juicy chicken drumsticks coated in a smoky, tangy barbecue glaze, perfect for grilling or oven-baking.
For extra smoky flavor, I love using a charcoal grill or adding a drop of liquid smoke to the marinade. It always brings out the best taste!
Ingredients
- Chicken: 8 chicken drumsticks (about 1 kg)
- Marinade & BBQ Sauce: 2 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 cup barbecue sauce (gluten-free if necessary), 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F), or preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
- Step 2:
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Toss the drumsticks in the spice mixture until well coated.
- Step 4:
- Arrange the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment or a lightly oiled grill rack.
- Step 5:
- Bake or grill for 25 minutes, turning once halfway through.
- Step 6:
- Meanwhile, mix the barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
- Step 7:
- After 25 minutes, brush the drumsticks generously with the BBQ sauce mixture.
- Step 8:
- Continue cooking for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C/165°F) and the glaze is caramelized.
- Step 9:
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Save This recipe always brings back fond family memories, especially during summer cookouts where everyone gathers around the grill.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, baking sheet or grill, pastry brush, tongs, meat thermometer (recommended)
Allergen Information
Contains Worcestershire sauce which may include fish, gluten, or soy. Choose gluten-free if needed. Barbecue sauce ingredients vary; check for allergens such as soy or mustard. Always check product labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 320, Total Fat: 17 g, Carbohydrates: 14 g, Protein: 29 g (per serving)
Save This smoky BBQ chicken is perfect for any occasion and sure to impress your guests every time.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → How do I achieve the smoky flavor?
Use smoked paprika and optionally add a drop of liquid smoke to the marinade. Grilling over charcoal also enhances smokiness.
- → Can I prepare this without a grill?
Yes, baking the drumsticks in the oven at 200°C (400°F) works well and yields tender results.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F). A meat thermometer is recommended for accuracy.
- → What sides pair well with these drumsticks?
Coleslaw, corn on the cob, or potato salad complement the smoky flavors nicely.
- → Can I use other chicken parts instead of drumsticks?
Yes, chicken thighs or wings can be substituted using the same marinade and cooking method.