There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a perfectly cooked BBQ chicken drumstick—the crackle of crispy, caramelized skin giving way to juicy, fall-off-the-bone meat. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard cookout, prepping game-day snacks, or just craving that smoky-sweet flavor, chicken drumsticks are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Affordable, easy to cook, and packed with flavor, they’re a blank canvas for bold rubs, sticky glazes, and finger-licking sauces.
But let’s be honest—not all drumsticks are created equal. Ever had one that’s burnt on the outside but still raw near the bone? Or worse, a bland, rubbery bite that makes you reach for the nearest sauce bottle? We’ve all been there. That’s why we’ve gathered 11 foolproof BBQ chicken drumstick recipes that guarantee crispy skin, tender meat, and layers of flavor in every bite. From classic smoky barbecue to spicy Korean gochujang glaze, tangy honey mustard, or a sticky bourbon-peach finish, these recipes cover all the cravings.
You’ll also find pro tips on marinating for maximum juiciness, getting that ideal char without drying them out, and even oven-baked options for when the weather won’t cooperate. Plus, we’ve included sides that pair perfectly—think cool coleslaw, buttery cornbread, or grilled veggies to round out the meal. So grab your apron, fire up the grill (or preheat the oven), and get ready to make drumsticks the star of the show.
Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Drumsticks
Teriyaki glazed chicken drumsticks are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. The sticky teriyaki sauce caramelizes beautifully on the chicken skin, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside. This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike.
The umami-rich sauce, combined with hints of garlic and ginger, adds depth to the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re grilling them for a summer barbecue or baking them for a cozy dinner, these drumsticks are sure to impress.
Sweet and Spicy Honey BBQ Drumsticks
Sweet and Spicy Honey BBQ Drumsticks are a delightful mix of flavors that make your taste buds dance. The combination of honey and spices creates a sticky, caramelized glaze that complements juicy chicken perfectly. This recipe is simple to whip up, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or backyard barbecues.
With each bite, you’ll experience a sweet and spicy kick that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, the crispy skin adds a satisfying crunch, making these drumsticks a hit with everyone. Enjoy them with your favorite sides or on their own for a tasty treat!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the honey, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place the drumsticks in a large bowl or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Toss to coat evenly and let sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Arrange the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are cooked through and the skin is crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your delicious Sweet and Spicy Honey BBQ Drumsticks!
Maple Mustard Glazed Drumsticks
These maple mustard glazed drumsticks are a delicious blend of sweet and tangy flavors. The maple syrup adds a rich sweetness, while the mustard provides a zesty kick that perfectly complements the tender meat. This recipe is simple and perfect for any weeknight dinner or backyard barbecue.
With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. The result is crispy skin paired with juicy chicken that’s sure to have everyone reaching for seconds!
Ingredients
- 10 chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the drumsticks in a baking dish and brush them generously with the maple mustard mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired before serving.
Garlic Parmesan Crusted Drumsticks
Garlic Parmesan Crusted Drumsticks are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that brings together the mouthwatering flavors of garlic and cheese. The crispy skin is packed with savory goodness, making each bite a delightful experience. This recipe is perfect for casual gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
The best part? These drumsticks are simple to prepare. You just need a few ingredients and a little time to let them bake to perfection. The combination of garlic and parmesan creates a rich, comforting flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken drumsticks and toss to coat evenly.
- Roll each drumstick in the breadcrumb mixture until well coated and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the drumsticks are golden and cooked through. Enjoy!
Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken
This Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken recipe brings a perfect blend of heat and sweetness, making it a favorite for any BBQ gathering. The smoky flavor from chipotle peppers complements the juicy, tender chicken drumsticks, creating a dish that packs a punch without being overwhelming. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, leaving you more time to enjoy with your friends and family!
The marinade combines smoky spices, tangy vinegar, and a hint of sweetness, resulting in a sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken skin. As the drumsticks grill, they develop a crispy exterior while remaining succulent on the inside. Get ready to impress everyone with these deliciously flavored chicken legs!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together minced chipotle peppers, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken drumsticks in a large resealable bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Grill the chicken for about 25-30 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your smoky, chipotle-flavored BBQ chicken!
Lemon Herb Marinade Drumsticks
These lemon herb marinade drumsticks are a perfect combination of zesty and savory flavors. The bright notes of lemon paired with fresh herbs create a deliciously refreshing taste that elevates the juicy chicken. Plus, marinating is a simple process, making these drumsticks a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight meal or a fun weekend BBQ.
The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps keep it tender and juicy during cooking. Grilling or baking these drumsticks results in crispy skin that perfectly contrasts with the succulent meat inside. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy yet flavorful dish!
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, cilantro, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl, ensuring each piece is coated well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the drumsticks from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
- Grill the drumsticks for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious lemon herb marinade drumsticks with your favorite sides!
Buffalo Style Drumsticks with Blue Cheese Dip
If you’re craving a spicy kick, these Buffalo style drumsticks are just what you need! Coated in a tangy buffalo sauce, they offer the perfect blend of heat and flavor, making them a crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also simple to prepare, making them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or game day parties.
To balance the spice, serve these drumsticks with a creamy blue cheese dip. The coolness of the dip complements the heat of the wings, creating a perfect flavor pairing. Plus, with just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a tasty dish ready in no time!
Ingredients
- 12 chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup blue cheese dressing
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
- Celery sticks (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken drumsticks and toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange the drumsticks on the wire rack and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, brush the drumsticks with buffalo sauce and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they are crispy and cooked through.
- While the drumsticks are baking, prepare the blue cheese dip by mixing the blue cheese dressing with chopped chives in a small bowl.
- Once the drumsticks are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve with the blue cheese dip and celery sticks on the side.
Classic Southern Fried Drumsticks
Classic Southern Fried Drumsticks are a delicious treat that brings the comfort of southern cooking to your table. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these drumsticks are seasoned to perfection, making them a hit at any gathering or family meal.
This recipe is simple and easy to follow, perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. With a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready in no time!
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the drumsticks in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the Coating: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Dredge the Chicken: Remove the drumsticks from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge them in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or fryer, heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (180°C).
- Fry the Drumsticks: Carefully add the coated drumsticks to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
- Drain and Serve: Remove the drumsticks from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite sides!
Crispy Korean BBQ Drumsticks
These Crispy Korean BBQ Drumsticks bring a delightful twist to your typical BBQ experience. They’re coated in a sweet and tangy sauce that combines the flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, creating a mouthwatering glaze that’s sure to impress. The combination of crispy skin and tender meat makes these drumsticks a favorite for any gathering.
What’s great about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch of drumsticks that everyone will love. Pair them with your favorite sides for a complete meal!
Ingredients
- 10 chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken drumsticks in a large resealable bag. Pour the marinade over them, seal the bag, and toss to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight.
- Remove the drumsticks from the marinade and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Reserve the marinade for basting.
- Bake the drumsticks for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through. Baste with the reserved marinade during the last 10 minutes for extra flavor.
- Once cooked through and crispy, remove from the oven and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
BBQ Sauce Infused Drumsticks
BBQ sauce infused drumsticks are a fantastic addition to any cookout. These drumsticks are packed with flavor and achieve that perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat. The sweet and tangy BBQ sauce creates a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully, making each bite absolutely mouthwatering.
This recipe is simple enough for beginners but also allows for a little creativity. You can use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or whip up a homemade version to suit your tastes. Either way, these drumsticks will impress everyone at your next gathering!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss until they are well coated in the sauce.
- Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
- For an extra caramelized finish, broil the drumsticks for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye on them to avoid burning.
- Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side!
Cilantro Lime Grilled Drumsticks
These cilantro lime grilled drumsticks are a delicious twist on traditional BBQ chicken. With a bright and zesty flavor, the marinade combines fresh lime juice and cilantro, making each bite refreshing and full of life. They are easy to prepare, perfect for a weekend cookout or a simple family dinner.
The marinated chicken becomes wonderfully tender, while the grilling process adds a nice char and crispiness to the skin. Pair these drumsticks with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the drumsticks and coat them evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Drumsticks: Remove the drumsticks from the marinade and shake off excess liquid. Place them on the grill, cooking for about 25-30 minutes. Turn occasionally until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Final Thoughts
BBQ chicken drumsticks are the kind of food that brings people together—no utensils needed, just napkins and extra sauce on standby. With these 11 recipes, you’ll never run out of ways to keep them exciting, whether you’re feeding a hungry family or impressing guests at your next cookout. Crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor, each recipe is a guaranteed hit. So pick your favorite, get grilling (or baking), and prepare for the kind of meal that has everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even fighting over the last one.