Southern BBQ Baked Chicken Drumsticks are a delicious and easy dish that everyone will love. With a crispy outside and juicy meat inside, these drumsticks are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a flavorful meal, this recipe will hit the spot.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Southern BBQ Baked Chicken Drumsticks. First, they are simple to prepare and require minimal ingredients. Second, the flavor is fantastic with the combination of spices and barbecue sauce. Lastly, they are baked in the oven, which means you can enjoy a healthier version of classic fried chicken without sacrificing taste.
How to Make Southern BBQ Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Making Southern BBQ Baked Chicken Drumsticks is easy and straightforward. Just follow these simple steps to create a tasty meal for your family or friends.
Ingredients:
- 12 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss well to coat them evenly with the seasoning mix.
- Place the drumsticks on the wire rack, ensuring they are spaced out for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the drumsticks and brush generously with barbecue sauce.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
- For extra caramelization, broil the drumsticks for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once finished, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
How to Serve Southern BBQ Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Serve these drumsticks hot out of the oven. You can pair them with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread. They are also great for a barbecue or picnic. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra treat.
How to Store Southern BBQ Baked Chicken Drumsticks
If you have any leftovers, let the drumsticks cool to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Southern BBQ Baked Chicken Drumsticks
- For extra flavor, marinate the drumsticks in the seasoning mix for a few hours or overnight.
- Use homemade barbecue sauce for a personal touch.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
Variation
If you want to try something different, you can use different spices or sauces. For example, try a honey mustard glaze or a spicy chipotle sauce for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use thighs or wings instead of drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. What should I do if I don’t have a wire rack?
You can bake the drumsticks directly on the lined baking sheet, but make sure to flip them halfway through cooking for even crisping.
3. Can I grill these drumsticks instead?
Absolutely! You can grill the seasoned drumsticks over medium heat, brushing with barbecue sauce towards the end of cooking.
Enjoy making and sharing these Southern BBQ Baked Chicken Drumsticks with your loved ones!
