Description
These Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are a flavorful and healthier twist on a classic favorite. Coated in a robust blend of garlic, onion, chili powder, smoked paprika, and ginger, these tender drumsticks are oven-baked to perfection and generously brushed with sugar-free BBQ sauce for a delicious, guilt-free meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 pounds chicken drumsticks (about 12 pieces)
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Sauce
- 2 cups sugar-free BBQ sauce (or low sugar alternative)
Instructions
- Prepare the Seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken drumsticks with garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands to rub the seasoning mixture generously all over each drumstick to ensure even coating.
- Marinate: Place the seasoned drumsticks in the refrigerator and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat for more flavorful results.
- Preheat the Oven: While the chicken is marinating, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a roasting tin by lining it with aluminum foil to simplify cleanup. Position a wire rack on top of the tin to allow air circulation during baking.
- Arrange Chicken: Transfer the marinated drumsticks onto the wire rack in the roasting tin, spacing them slightly apart to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Bake the Drumsticks: Place the roasting tin in the middle rack of the oven and bake the chicken for 40-50 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the drumsticks carefully to cook evenly on both sides.
- Apply BBQ Sauce: Remove the drumsticks from the oven and brush each piece generously with the sugar-free BBQ sauce. Return the tin to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Flip and Reapply Sauce: Flip the drumsticks again, brush with more BBQ sauce, and bake for another 10-15 minutes. This double coating ensures a sticky, flavorful glaze on each drumstick.
- Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through with a caramelized BBQ crust, remove from the oven and serve immediately while hot and juicy. Enjoy your delicious baked BBQ chicken drumsticks!
Notes
- Serving size is 2 drumsticks per person.
- Oven temperatures may vary; some ovens might require an additional 15-20 minutes of cooking time. You can also increase the oven temperature to 400°F (205°C) for a shorter cooking period and crispier skin.
- Substitute chicken drumsticks with chicken breasts or thighs if preferred.
- Use your favorite healthy sugar-free or low-sugar BBQ sauce to keep the meal wholesome.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving. Chicken can also be frozen in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 chicken drumsticks (about 6 oz)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
