Ingredients
2.5 lb Chicken drumsticks (skin-on)
1 tbsp Olive oil
¼ cup Brown sugar
2 tbsp Smoked paprika
1 tbsp Garlic powder
1 tbsp Onion powder
1 tsp Salt
1 tsp Ground black pepper
¼ tsp Cayenne pepper (optional)
½ cup Ketchup
2 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Yellow mustard
Instructions
1. Prep: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat drumsticks thoroughly dry with paper towels.
2. Rub: Combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Drizzle chicken with oil and rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides.
3. Roast: Arrange drumsticks on a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes until internal temp reaches 155°F.
4. Sauce: Whisk ketchup, vinegar, Worcestershire, and mustard in a small bowl.
5. Glaze: Brush the drumsticks with the BBQ sauce. Bake or grill for an additional 5-7 minutes until the sauce is glossy, sticky, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve: Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Pro-Tips:
• Pat the skin very dry before adding the rub to ensure it browns and crisps properly in the oven.
• Use a wire rack set over a baking sheet to ensure hot air circulates around the drumsticks for even cooking.
• Add the BBQ sauce only in the final 10 minutes of cooking to prevent the sugars in the sauce from burning.
Variations:
• Honey-Glazed: Swap 2 tbsp of brown sugar in the rub for honey in the sauce for a richer, floral sweetness.
• Spicy Chipotle: Stir 1 tsp minced chipotle in adobo into the BBQ sauce for a smoky, spicy kick.
• Asian-Style: Replace the BBQ sauce with a mix of hoisin sauce, grated ginger, and sesame oil.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roast/Grill
- Cuisine: American