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)

If you’re craving something that’s smoky, sticky, and downright addictive, this Crispy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe is exactly what you need. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a sunny afternoon or just craving crispy chicken legs, you’re going to love these flavorful drumsticks.

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 make this BBQ chicken all summer long, and it never fails to get rave reviews. The combination of the crispy skin and that special BBQ spice blend means everyone’s licking their fingers and coming back for more.

Crunchy, Crispy Skin: Patting the drumsticks dry and using just the right heat gets the skin perfectly crisp—no sogginess here.
Balanced BBQ Flavors: The smoky paprika and tangy BBQ sauce marry beautifully for a flavor that’s bold but not overpowering.
Simple Ingredients: No complicated shopping list—just pantry staples and a few kitchen basics.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Grill outdoors, air fry, or bake in the oven—it works great any way you make it!

Ingredients & Why They Work

Getting your hands on fresh chicken drumsticks is key here, plus a good BBQ sauce that suits your taste buds and dietary needs. The spice blend is simple but packs a punch—don’t skip the smoked paprika for that authentic BBQ vibe.

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: These are the stars—look for plump, fresh pieces for the best texture and juiciness.
BBQ Sauce: Choose one you love or makes you nostalgic; it ties everything together with that tangy-sweet finish.
Olive Oil: Helps the spices stick and aids in crisping the skin perfectly on the grill.
Chili Powder: Adds warmth and subtle heat that wakes up your taste buds.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural chicken flavors.
Pepper: Gives a gentle kick and balances the spice blend.
Garlic Powder: Deepens the flavor with savory garlic notes without overpowering.
Smoked Paprika: The magic ingredient for that smoky, outdoorsy BBQ flavor.
Onion Powder: Adds sweetness and complexity to the spice mix.
Cayenne Pepper (optional): For those who like a little extra heat in their BBQ experience.

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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 easy it is to tailor it to your taste buds and lifestyle. Whether you want to dial up the heat, sneak in some extra herb flavors, or adapt it for different cooking methods, the possibilities are deliciously endless.

Spice It Up: I love adding extra cayenne pepper or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little fiery kick. It’s fantastic if you enjoy bold, spicy BBQ.
Herb Lover’s Twist: Adding a teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary to the BBQ spice blend brings a fragrant, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled meats.
Diet-Friendly Variations: For a low-sodium version, reduce the salt in the spice blend and choose a low-sodium BBQ sauce. Using a sugar-free BBQ sauce also keeps the recipe keto-friendly without sacrificing that tangy glaze.
Seasonal Flair: In summertime, fresh chopped cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top after cooking adds a bright freshness to the smoky drumsticks.
Cooking Method Swap: If you’re short on grill time or the weather isn’t cooperating, try the air fryer or oven adaptation—they both deliver crispy, juicy results that stay true to the recipe.

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 Perfect BBQ Spice Blend

Start by measuring out your chili powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and the optional cayenne pepper into a small bowl. Give it a good stir until all those spices are evenly combined. This blend is where all your crispy, smoky goodness begins, so take a moment to really appreciate those vibrant colors and aromas. It’s like a handshake from your BBQ — ready to make magic on the chicken!

Step 2: Season the Chicken Drumsticks

Pat each drumstick dry with paper towels — this simple step helps ensure beautifully crispy skin once grilled. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the chicken, then sprinkle your BBQ spice blend all over. Toss and rub the drumsticks gently but thoroughly until each piece is coated with that flavorful mixture. You’ll notice the chicken start to look glossy and seasoned — that’s when you know it’s primed for the grill.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill to the Perfect Temperature

If you’re using a gas grill, crank it up to medium-high heat—aim for around 400°F. Charcoal lovers, create two heat zones by pushing most of the coals to one side, setting up a medium-high and medium-low side. This setup lets you get that sear on the hot side and finish cooking the chicken gently on the cooler side.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken Over Direct Heat

Place the drumsticks right over the medium-high heat. Let them cook for a few minutes on each side, turning often to get an even, crispy brown crust all around. You’ll want to see that gorgeous golden color and hear the satisfying sizzle — that’s your skin crisping up beautifully.

Step 5: Finish Cooking on Indirect Heat

Once that skin is nicely browned, move the drumsticks over to the medium-low heat zone. Close the grill lid and cook them for about 25 minutes, turning halfway through. This slower cooking lets the inside reach that safe 165°F temperature (measured with a meat thermometer), ensuring juicy, tender meat without burning the skin.

Step 6: Brush on the BBQ Sauce Glaze

When the chicken is just about done, brush each drumstick generously with your favorite BBQ sauce. This finishing touch adds a shiny, sticky glaze that’s packed with smoky, tangy flavor. Let it cook for a couple more minutes so the sauce sets up and caramelizes lightly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Use your meat thermometer to double-check the internal temperature has hit 165°F (74°C). Then, plate up your crispy, BBQ-glazed drumsticks and dig in while they’re hot. The crispy skin, flavorful spices, and smoky sweetness of the sauce make every bite downright addicting — perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together!

Top Tip

Mastering the perfect Crispy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe is all about these little details that really pack a punch. With a few helpful tips, your drumsticks will come out crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor every single time.

Dry Skin for Crispiness: Patting the drumsticks completely dry before seasoning is a game changer. Moisture on the skin steams the chicken and prevents that satisfying crispiness we all crave.
Two-Zone Grilling: I’ve learned that starting on direct medium-high heat browns and crisps the skin beautifully, then moving the chicken to indirect medium-low heat finishes the cooking without burning. It’s all about that balance.
Generous Spice Rub: Don’t skimp on the BBQ spice blend! Rubbing it well into the oiled chicken guarantees every bite is full of smoky, spicy flavor. Mixing the spices beforehand ensures even seasoning.
Don’t Rush the Temp: Using a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C) internal temp avoids overcooking so your drumsticks stay juicy and safe to eat. I avoid guessing and trust the temp every time.

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

Brighten your drumsticks by topping them with fresh chopped green onions or a sprinkle of diced fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. A wedge of lemon or lime on the side adds a zesty contrast that complements the smoky BBQ flavors beautifully. For a little crunch, scatter some toasted sesame seeds or finely sliced radishes on top.

Side Dishes

Pair your crispy grilled drumsticks with classic BBQ sides like tangy coleslaw, buttery corn on the cob, or smoky baked beans. Refreshing cucumber and tomato salad or grilled vegetables add balance and brightness. For a cozy comfort touch, creamy mashed potatoes or cheesy mac and cheese always make everyone happy at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep leftover crispy BBQ chicken drumsticks fresh, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay good for up to 3 to 4 days. Be sure to cool the chicken completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can soften the skin.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your cooked drumsticks, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat and preserve that crispy skin, pop the drumsticks in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the skin soggy. Another option is to reheat on a grill or in an air fryer at 400°F for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this Crispy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe indoors?

Absolutely! You can use the oven adaptation by baking the drumsticks at 400°F (204°C) for 45 minutes, turning once halfway through. This method produces wonderfully crispy and flavorful drumsticks without a grill.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer and ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C). This guarantees your Crispy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are juicy and safe to enjoy.

Can I prep the chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix the chicken with olive oil and the BBQ spice blend, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 18 hours before grilling. This allows the flavors to deepen and makes cooking even easier.

What if I want to add more heat to the recipe?

Feel free to include the optional ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper in the spice blend or brush some spicy BBQ sauce over the drumsticks after grilling to kick up the heat.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about biting into perfectly grilled Crispy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks with that smoky crust and tender meat inside. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a weekend BBQ, or a special occasion, this recipe is a delicious crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and always impressive. I hope these tips and suggestions make your cooking experience joyful and stress-free — happy grilling!