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Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe – Easy and Flavorful
If you’re looking for a mouthwatering and easy chicken drumstick recipe, this delicious baked BBQ chicken drumsticks recipe is a sure winner. With its flavorful marinade and tender meat, it’s perfect for a family dinner or a backyard barbecue. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- Place the chicken drumsticks in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the drumsticks, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Arrange the marinated drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Brush additional marinade over the drumsticks for extra flavor.
- Bake the drumsticks for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For a crispy finish, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or spring onions, if desired.
Mastering the Art: Ensuring BBQ Sauce Adheres to Drumsticks
One common challenge when baking drumsticks is getting the BBQ sauce to stick to the meat. To maximize sauce adherence, make sure to pat dry the drumsticks before applying the marinade. This helps remove excess moisture, allowing the sauce to cling better to the chicken.
Drumsticks in the Oven: To Cover or Not to Cover?
When baking drumsticks, it’s generally recommended to leave them uncovered. This allows the skin to crisp up and develop a delicious golden-brown color. However, if you prefer a more tender and moist result, you can cover the drumsticks with foil for the first half of the baking time.
Perfect BBQ Drumstick Temperature: Expert Tips for Optimal Results
For perfectly cooked BBQ drumsticks, it’s crucial to ensure they reach the ideal internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the drumstick, avoiding the bone. This will guarantee that the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
Pre-cooking Chicken Drumsticks: To BBQ or Not to BBQ?
If you enjoy a smoky flavor, you can pre-cook the drumsticks on a barbecue grill before baking them in the oven. This step adds an extra layer of depth to the overall taste. However, if you prefer to skip the barbecuing process, you can directly marinate the drumsticks and bake them in the oven for equally delicious results.
