Print

Easy Sticky BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe with 3-Ingredient Sauce for Perfect Grilling

easy sticky BBQ chicken drumsticks - featured image
Print Recipe

This easy sticky BBQ chicken drumsticks recipe features a simple 3-ingredient sauce that creates a sweet, tangy, and smoky glaze perfect for grilling or oven baking. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleaser ideal for casual gatherings and weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900 grams) chicken drumsticks, fresh or thawed, skin-on preferred
  • 1 cup (240 ml) BBQ sauce (smoky, slightly sweet variety recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup as an alternative)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season lightly with salt and pepper. (5 minutes)
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup BBQ sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. Stir until smooth and glossy. (3 minutes)
  3. Optional: Toss the drumsticks in half of the sauce and let them marinate for 15-30 minutes. If short on time, skip this step and brush sauce later. (15-30 minutes)
  4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F / 190°C) or oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil. (5-10 minutes)
  5. Place drumsticks on grill or baking sheet. Cook for 20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes and brushing with remaining sauce each time to build a sticky glaze. (20 minutes)
  6. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Skin should be caramelized and slightly charred. (2 minutes)
  7. Let drumsticks rest off heat for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute. (5 minutes)

Notes

Patting the chicken dry helps the skin crisp and the sauce stick better. Use indirect heat on the grill to avoid burning the sauce sugars. Baste frequently every 5 minutes to build a sticky glaze. Rest the chicken after cooking for juicy meat. For oven baking, cook at 400°F for 35-40 minutes, basting every 10 minutes. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken, sticky chicken drumsticks, easy grilling recipe, 3-ingredient sauce, backyard BBQ, quick chicken recipe, honey BBQ sauce

Find it online: https://goldensimmer.com/easy-sticky-bbq-chicken-drumsticks-recipe-with-3-ingredient-sauce-for-perfect-grilling/