Name: Crispy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lb chicken drumsticks (legs); 1/2 cup BBQ sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3/4 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

There’s something utterly satisfying about biting into tender chicken with a crispy, smoky crust. This Crispy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe delivers that crave-worthy crunch and juicy flavor, making it a go-to for summer cookouts or anytime you want an easy grilled meal.

The image shows eight grilled chicken drumsticks on white parchment paper placed on a wooden board. The drumsticks have a shiny, sticky reddish-brown glaze with charred spots and grill marks, giving them a slightly crispy texture. To the right side of the board, there is a small glass jar with extra sauce, partially filled and a spoon inside. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Crispy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Crispy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I can’t tell you how many times these drumsticks have saved my dinner plans—quick, delicious, and always a hit with everyone around the table.

Perfectly Crispy Skin: The spice blend and grilling technique create that irresistible crunchy exterior.
Juicy and Tender Meat: Cooking low and slow after searing ensures the drumsticks stay moist inside.
Homemade Flavor Boost: That DIY BBQ spice mix adds a smoky, slightly spicy kick you just can’t get from store-bought blends.
Versatile Prep Options: Whether you grill, air fry, or oven-bake, this recipe adapts to your kitchen setup.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before you fire up the grill, gather these simple ingredients. Nothing fancy here—just good quality chicken, a handful of spices, and a BBQ sauce that suits your taste buds.

Flat lay of two whole raw chicken drumsticks with natural skin texture, a few sprigs of fresh green rosemary, a small white ceramic bowl filled with vibrant red BBQ sauce, a small white ceramic bowl containing golden olive oil, six small white ceramic bowls each with a different finely ground spice powders including deep red chili powder, bright white salt crystals, black peppercorns crushed into powder, pale beige garlic powder, rich red smoked paprika, and light tan onion powder, all symmetrically arranged, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Chicken Drumsticks: I prefer drumsticks for their juicy meat and natural handle—perfect for casual eating.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite kind, whether tangy, sweet, or smoky, to finish off the drumsticks.
Olive Oil: Helps the spice blend stick and crisps up the skin during grilling.
Chili Powder: Adds a mild heat and depth to the seasoning mix.
Salt: Essential to draw out flavor and enhance the chicken’s natural juices.
Pepper: For that sharp, peppery bite that balances the spices.
Garlic Powder: Brings savory richness without overpowering the dish.
Smoked Paprika: This is the secret to smoky flavor without actual smoke.
Onion Powder: Rounds out the spice blend with a hint of sweetness.
Cayenne Pepper (Optional): Kick it up a notch if you like your chicken with some heat!

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best parts about this Crispy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe is how easily you can customize it to suit your taste or occasion. Whether you like it spicy, smoky, or mild, these drumsticks adapt brilliantly to your preferences.

Spice it up: For a bolder kick, I love adding an extra pinch of cayenne pepper or even a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce before brushing it on. It really wakes up the flavors without overpowering the chicken.
Smoky undertones: If you have a smoker box or wood chips for your grill, try adding hickory or applewood chips while grilling. It gives the drumsticks a wonderful smoky aroma that pairs perfectly with the BBQ spice blend.
Sweet and tangy twist: Mix in a bit of honey or maple syrup into your BBQ sauce for a sticky, sweet glaze. I’ve served this variation at summer picnics, and it’s always a hit with kids and adults alike!
Omit cayenne pepper if you prefer mild: If you’re cooking for little ones or someone who prefers less heat, simply skip the cayenne in the spice blend. The drumsticks still get plenty of flavor from the smoked paprika and garlic powder.
Make it gluten-free: Just be sure to use a gluten-free BBQ sauce, and you’ve got a safe and delicious meal for anyone with sensitivities.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

A white plate holds three grilled chicken drumsticks with a dark brown, slightly charred shiny glaze placed on the bottom right. To the left of the chicken is a scoop of creamy pale yellow potato salad with small bits of orange and green, sprinkled with chopped green herbs and black pepper. Above the potato salad are two long, light green pickle spears positioned horizontally. A fork rests on the left edge of the plate on a white marbled surface in bright natural light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Whip up the BBQ Spice Blend

Start by combining the chili powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if you’re using it) in a small bowl. Give it a thorough stir until everything is evenly mixed — this balanced blend is what makes the chicken so flavorful and gives it that irresistible smoky heat.

Step 2: Prep and Season the Drumsticks

Pat your chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels — this little step is key to getting that crispy skin. Then drizzle the olive oil over the drumsticks and sprinkle on the BBQ spice blend. Use your hands or tongs to toss and coat each drumstick thoroughly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

Fire up your grill to the right temperature. If you're using a gas grill, set it to medium-high heat, around 400°F. For charcoal, arrange your coals so you have a hotter zone for searing (medium-high) and a cooler indirect zone (medium-low). This setup lets you get that perfect crispy exterior without burning the chicken.

Step 4: Grill the Drumsticks for Crispy Skin

Place your drumsticks directly over the medium-high heat on oiled grill grates. Turn them frequently every few minutes — you want that skin beautifully browned and crispy all over. Once that golden crust forms, move the drumsticks to the medium-low heat side. Close the grill lid and let them cook gently for about 25 minutes, turning once halfway through, so they cook evenly and stay juicy inside.

Step 5: Slather on the BBQ Sauce

After grilling, brush each drumstick with your favorite BBQ sauce. This final touch adds a delicious sticky glaze that complements the smoky, spicy crust perfectly. If you want, pop them back on the grill for a minute or two to set the sauce — but watch them closely so the sugar in the sauce doesn’t burn!

Step 6: Check Doneness and Serve Hot

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) — this ensures the chicken is safe to eat and juicy inside. Serve immediately while hot, and get ready for compliments on your perfectly crispy, smoky drumsticks!

Top Tip

Getting those drumsticks perfectly crispy and full of flavor can really elevate your BBQ game. These tips come from hands-on experience and a love for that delicious, smoky crust.

Dry the Chicken Thoroughly: Patting each drumstick completely dry before applying the oil and spice blend ensures the skin crisps up beautifully on the grill.
Control the Heat Zones: >Setting up a two-zone grill—medium-high direct heat and medium-low indirect heat—lets you brown the drumsticks first and then cook them through gently without burning.
Use a Meat Thermometer: This little tool is a game-changer. Checking for an internal temperature of 165°F guarantees your chicken is juicy and safely cooked every time.
Apply BBQ Sauce Last: Brushing sauce on only after cooking prevents it from burning and gives your drumsticks that sticky, finger-licking finish.

How to Serve Crispy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

The image shows two white bowls on a white marbled surface, each filled with raw chicken drumsticks. The bowl on the left has drumsticks sprinkled unevenly with dry spices that are reddish brown and blackish in color, creating a light dusting over pale pink chicken skin. The bowl on the right shows the same drumsticks, now coated with the spices and some oil, giving them a shiny and wet appearance with the reddish seasoning spread all over the pale skin. Both bowls are close together with the right bowl slightly overlapping the left one. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh, bright garnishes bring extra life to your plate. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. Thinly sliced green onions add a mild crunch, and a wedge of lemon on the side lets everyone add a zesty tang if they like. For a smoky twist, a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top pairs well with the BBQ flavors.

Side Dishes

This Crispy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe shines when paired with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, buttery corn on the cob, and tangy baked beans. For a lighter touch, serve with a crisp garden salad or grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Classic potato salad or even some garlic roasted potatoes round out the meal perfectly for any summer gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover grilled chicken drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them cool completely before refrigerating to maintain moisture and texture.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cooled chicken drumsticks tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen chicken drumsticks will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

For juicy reheated chicken, warm your drumsticks in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, reheat in an air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness, checking often to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this Crispy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe without a grill?

Absolutely! You can use your oven or air fryer to get delicious results. The oven method requires baking at 400°F for 40-45 minutes, turning halfway, while the air fryer cooks the drumsticks at 400°F for 18-22 minutes, turning once.

Should I marinate the chicken before grilling?

You don’t have to marinate, but mixing the chicken with the olive oil and BBQ spice blend and refrigerating for up to 18 hours enhances flavor and tenderness wonderfully.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is safely cooked when it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the drumstick.

Can I make the BBQ sauce spicier?

Yes! If you like heat, keep the cayenne pepper in the spice blend and choose a spicy BBQ sauce. For milder flavors, omit the cayenne pepper and opt for a sweeter BBQ sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about biting into crispy, smoky BBQ chicken drumsticks fresh off the grill. Whether you’re serving them up for a casual family dinner or a weekend cookout with friends, this Crispy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe is sure to become a favorite. It’s simple, juicy, and bursting with flavor — the kind of meal that brings everyone together around the table. So grab your grill, gather your favorite sides, and enjoy every sticky, delicious bite!