Easy Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Legs: A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner Recipe

The Ultimate Smoky Sweet BBQ Chicken Legs Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the finger-licking goodness of perfectly cooked BBQ chicken legs fresh from the oven. This easy recipe delivers that authentic barbecue flavor without needing a grill, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings when you’re craving that classic American BBQ taste.

Why You’ll Love These Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

These baked chicken legs offer all the smoky-sweet flavor of outdoor grilling but with the convenience of oven cooking. The drumsticks develop a gorgeous sticky glaze and tender, juicy meat that falls off the bone. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss!

Ingredients for Perfect BBQ Chicken Legs

• 1.5 pounds chicken drumsticks (about 6-8 drumsticks)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for a kick)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Basting brush
• Meat thermometer (recommended)

How to Make the Best BBQ Chicken Legs in the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
2. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes crispier skin.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the drumsticks in a large bowl and pour the oil and spice mixture over them. Toss until each leg is evenly coated.
5. Arrange the seasoned chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch each other.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
7. While the chicken is baking, prepare your BBQ sauce by mixing your barbecue sauce with honey and hot sauce if using.
8. After 25 minutes, remove the chicken from the oven and brush generously with about half of the BBQ sauce mixture.
9. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes.
10. Brush the chicken legs with the remaining sauce and bake for a final 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the sauce has formed a sticky glaze.
11. Let the BBQ chicken legs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Chef’s Tips for Juicy BBQ Chicken Legs

• Don’t rush the cooking process – Low and slow is the key to tender, juicy chicken legs.
• Add the BBQ sauce in stages – This prevents burning and helps build layers of flavor.
• Try different BBQ sauces – Experiment with hickory, honey, spicy, or bourbon-infused varieties.
• Give them space – Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this will cause the chicken to steam rather than roast.
• For extra smoky flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of liquid smoke to your barbecue sauce.

Variations on Classic BBQ Chicken Legs

Spicy BBQ Chicken Legs

Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to your seasoning mix and use a spicy BBQ sauce for heat lovers.

Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Legs

Mix 2 tablespoons of honey and 3 minced garlic cloves into your BBQ sauce for a sweet and garlicky twist.

Lemon Herb BBQ Chicken Legs

Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano) to your seasoning mix.

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Legs

These flavorful BBQ chicken drumsticks pair perfectly with:

• Classic coleslaw
• Corn on the cob
• Baked beans
• Mac and cheese
• Potato salad
• Cornbread
• Grilled vegetables

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftover BBQ chicken legs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but the texture won’t be as good.

Freezing: These BBQ chicken legs freeze well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 725 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 46 g
• Protein: 44 g
• Fat: 39 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 184 mg
• Sodium: 2236 mg
• Fiber: 1 g

Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Chicken Legs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of legs?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully with this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs might take a little longer to cook through.

Can I make this recipe on the grill?

Yes! Grill the chicken legs over medium heat for about 30-35 minutes, turning occasionally. Baste with BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

How do I know when the chicken legs are done?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The meat should no longer be pink, and the juices should run clear.

Can I make these BBQ chicken legs ahead of time?

You can season the chicken and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance. You can also fully cook them, refrigerate, and then reheat when needed.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or planning a weekend backyard gathering, these delicious BBQ chicken legs are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. The perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors makes this an irresistible dish any time of year!