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Sticky BBQ Chicken Drumsticks - Sweet Smoky Glazed Oven-Baked Recipe

These oven-baked chicken drumsticks feature a double-glazing technique that creates an irresistible sticky, sweet, and smoky glaze. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, they're surprisingly easy to make with a caramelized finish that's guaranteed to disappear fast.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes browning.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Rub this mixture evenly over all sides of the drumsticks.
  4. Arrange the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they're not touching. Bake for 25 minutes.
  5. While the chicken bakes, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  6. After 25 minutes, remove the drumsticks from the oven. Brush them generously with about half of the BBQ glaze. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes.
  7. Brush with the remaining glaze and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
  8. Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Notes

Double glazing is key for maximum flavor penetration and perfect sticky texture. Let drumsticks rest after baking for juicier results. Customize heat level with cayenne pepper. For extra caramelization, broil for last 2-3 minutes.