Print

Easy Crispy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe for Perfect Dinner

crispy sheet pan bbq chicken drumsticks - featured image
Print Recipe

This easy crispy sheet pan BBQ chicken drumsticks recipe delivers perfectly crispy skin and tender meat with a tangy, smoky BBQ flavor. Ready in about 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8–10 chicken drumsticks, skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (thick, smoky variety recommended)
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir until a paste-like spice rub forms.
  4. Add the drumsticks to the bowl and toss thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly.
  5. Line a rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  6. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer on the sheet pan, spacing them at least an inch apart to avoid steaming.
  7. Roast the chicken for 25 minutes until starting to brown.
  8. Remove the pan and brush each drumstick generously with BBQ sauce. Flip the drumsticks and brush the other side as well.
  9. Return to the oven and roast for another 10-15 minutes until the sauce caramelizes and the skin turns deep golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  10. For extra crispiness, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  11. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry thoroughly to ensure crispy skin. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Apply BBQ sauce late in cooking to avoid burning. Use broil for last 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. For reheating, bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken, sheet pan chicken, crispy chicken drumsticks, easy dinner, weeknight recipe, barbecue, oven baked chicken

Find it online: https://lyrafeast.com/easy-crispy-sheet-pan-bbq-chicken-drumsticks-recipe-for-perfect-dinner/