Sticky BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Introduction:

Sticky BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are an irresistible blend of juicy chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, and a sweet, caramelized glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or summer cookouts, these drumsticks pack bold flavor with minimal prep.

Why You'll Love This Recipe:

• Super easy with simple pantry ingredients
• Deliciously sticky, sweet, and smoky
• Oven-baked or grilled — your choice!
• A hit with both kids and adults
• Ideal for meal prep, gatherings, or weeknight comfort

Prep & Cook Time:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time (optional): 30 minutes – overnight
• Cooking Time: 40–45 minutes
• Total Time: ~55 minutes (without marinating)

Calories:

Approximately 260–300 calories per drumstick (depends on size & sauce used)

Ingredients:

For the Drumsticks:

• 8 chicken drumsticks (skin-on, bone-in)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

For the Sticky BBQ Sauce:

• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
• 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)

Directions & Step-by-Step Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top (for even cooking).

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Pat drumsticks dry. In a bowl, toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Let marinate if time allows.

Step 3: Bake the Drumsticks

Arrange drumsticks on the rack. Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 4: Make the Sticky BBQ Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and chili flakes. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Baste & Broil

Brush cooked drumsticks generously with sticky sauce. Return to oven and broil for 3–5 minutes until the sauce caramelizes and bubbles.

Step 6: Rest & Serve

Let rest a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.

How to Serve:

Serve hot with:

• Coleslaw or corn on the cob
• Mashed potatoes or mac & cheese
• Grilled veggies or baked beans
• Dipping sauce on the side (extra BBQ or ranch)

Perfect for casual dinners, BBQs, and picnics!

Recipe Tips & Variations:

• Grill it: Grill drumsticks over medium heat for a smokier flavor.
• Spicy kick: Add hot sauce or more chili flakes to the glaze.
• Make it crispy: Remove excess fat and bake on a wire rack.
• BBQ Sauce swap: Try honey mustard, Korean gochujang, or buffalo BBQ for variations.

Freezing & Storage:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze (cooked): Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
• Freeze (raw & seasoned): Freeze raw seasoned drumsticks (no sauce) for future use.

Special Equipment Needed:

• Rimmed baking sheet
• Wire rack (for even baking)
• Basting brush
• Foil or parchment paper
• Saucepan for glaze

Conclusion

Sticky BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are everything you want in a comfort meal: crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and smothered in a sticky-sweet BBQ glaze that keeps you coming back for more. It’s a guaranteed winner for any day of the week.