Description
These Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are a flavorful and healthy take on a classic favorite, featuring a dry rub seasoning and sugar-free BBQ sauce. Perfectly baked to juicy tenderness with a smoky, spicy kick, they make a delicious main dish suitable for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 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 BBQ sauce)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken drumsticks with garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to generously rub the seasoning all over each drumstick to ensure they are well coated.
- Marinate: Place the seasoned drumsticks in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes to enhance taste.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a roasting tin with aluminum foil to make cleanup easier, if desired.
- Arrange for Baking: Transfer the marinated drumsticks to the prepared roasting tin and arrange them on a wire rack with some space between each piece to allow even cooking.
- Bake the Drumsticks: Place the roasting tin in the middle of the oven and bake the drumsticks for 40 to 50 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Apply BBQ Sauce and Bake Again: Remove the drumsticks from the oven and brush each one generously with the sugar-free BBQ sauce. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Flip the drumsticks and repeat the saucing and baking process once more to create a sticky glaze.
- Serve: Once baked thoroughly and glazed with BBQ sauce, serve the drumsticks immediately while hot and juicy. Enjoy your flavorful baked BBQ chicken!
Notes
- Serving size is 2 drumsticks.
- Ovens vary, so you may need to bake the drumsticks for an extra 15-20 minutes or increase the temperature to 400°F for quicker cooking.
- Chicken breasts or thighs can be used as substitutes if preferred.
- Feel free to use your favorite healthy BBQ sauce based on dietary preferences.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.
- For longer storage, place leftovers in a ziplock bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 drumsticks (approx. 150g)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
