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Flavorful BBQ Chicken Drumsticks with Smoky Sauce

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These BBQ chicken drumsticks feature a tangy, slightly sweet smoky sauce that creates a juicy, flavorful, and caramelized finish. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or summer cookouts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8–10 chicken drumsticks, skin-on and bone-in
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle powder (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to achieve crispy skin. Season evenly with salt and black pepper, then transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, chipotle powder, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce until thick but spreadable.
  3. Pour half the smoky sauce over the drumsticks and toss until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to overnight.
  4. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet and arrange the drumsticks on the rack so they are not touching.
  5. Bake the drumsticks for 20 minutes, then flip and brush with more smoky sauce. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until skin is golden and slightly charred at the edges.
  6. Optional: Broil on high for 3-5 minutes for extra caramelization, watching closely to avoid burning.
  7. Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is key for crispy skin. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best flavor. Use a wire rack for even cooking and crispy skin. Thin the sauce with water or apple cider vinegar if it thickens too much during baking. Avoid microwaving leftovers to keep skin crispy.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken drumsticks, smoky sauce, summer recipe, easy BBQ, grilled chicken, backyard cookout, quick dinner

Find it online: https://atomicbite.com/flavorful-bbq-chicken-drumsticks-recipe-easy-smoky-sauce-perfect-for-summer/