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Barbecue Baked Chicken Legs Recipe

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4.2 from 74 reviews

This Barbecue Baked Chicken Legs recipe offers a flavorful and juicy way to enjoy chicken drumsticks with a smoky spice blend and tangy BBQ sauce, baked to perfection in the oven for a simple yet delicious family meal.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 3 lbs. chicken drumsticks
  • 1 Tbsp. olive oil or avocado oil

Spice Mix

  • 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp. black pepper
  • 1 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1 tsp. onion powder
  • 1 tsp. smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp. chili powder

Sauce and Garnish

  • 3/4 cup prepared BBQ sauce, plus extra for serving
  • Chopped parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or spray it with non-stick spray to prepare for baking.
  2. Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry using paper towels. Drizzle with olive or avocado oil and rub to coat all drumsticks evenly.
  3. Mix and Coat Spices: In a small bowl, whisk together kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Toss the chicken drumsticks with the spice mix ensuring an even coating.
  4. Initial Bake: Arrange the seasoned drumsticks in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes to begin cooking and crisping the skin.
  5. Apply BBQ Sauce and Continue Baking: Brush each drumstick generously with BBQ sauce, flip them over, and brush the other side as well. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  6. Broil for Crispiness (Optional): For an extra caramelized finish, broil the drumsticks for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking. Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Notes

  • Ensure chicken drumsticks are evenly coated for uniform flavor.
  • Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking.
  • Broiling is optional but enhances the BBQ glaze’s caramelization.
  • Adjust baking time slightly if drumsticks are smaller or larger than average size.
  • Use parchment or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American