Easy Crispy Baked BBQ Chicken Legs Recipe: One-Pan Dinner Perfection

Crispy Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Legs Recipe

Looking for the perfect baked bbq chicken legs recipe that delivers that sweet, tangy barbecue flavor without firing up the grill? These oven-baked chicken drumsticks are exactly what you need for a hassle-free weeknight dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Oven BBQ Chicken Legs Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly cooked chicken drumstick coated in sticky, sweet barbecue sauce. Here’s why this recipe is about to become your new favorite:

• Easy prep: Just 10 minutes of hands-on time
• Budget-friendly: Drumsticks are one of the most economical cuts of chicken
• Kid-approved: The finger-food factor makes these a hit with children
• Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights
• No grill needed: Get that BBQ flavor year-round, regardless of weather

Ingredients for Perfect Baked BBQ Chicken Legs

• 1.5 pounds chicken drumsticks (about 6-8 drumsticks)
• 1 tablespoon 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)

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Chicken: While this recipe calls for drumsticks, you can easily substitute chicken thighs or even a mix of dark meat chicken pieces.

BBQ Sauce: Use your family’s favorite! Whether you prefer sweet, spicy, smoky, or tangy, the sauce you choose will define the flavor profile of this dish.

Seasonings: Feel free to customize the spice blend. Add cayenne for heat, brown sugar for sweetness, or smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.

How to Make the Best Baked BBQ Chicken Legs

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top if you have one.
2. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up during baking.
3. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
5. Arrange the seasoned drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the chicken from the oven and brush each drumstick generously with barbecue sauce, turning to coat all sides.
8. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce has caramelized slightly.
9. For extra saucy drumsticks, brush with additional barbecue sauce during the final 5 minutes of cooking.
10. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving to help the juices redistribute.

Pro Tips for Perfect Baked BBQ Chicken Legs

• Use a meat thermometer: The most reliable way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked is to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Line your baking sheet: Barbecue sauce can caramelize and burn on your baking sheet. Lining with foil makes cleanup a breeze.
• Elevate the chicken: Using a wire rack allows hot air to circulate around the entire drumstick, resulting in more even cooking and crispier skin.
• Don’t sauce too early: Adding barbecue sauce at the beginning of cooking can cause it to burn. Wait until the chicken is partially cooked before applying.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking helps keep it juicy.

Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with BBQ Chicken Legs

Complete your meal with these perfect pairings:

• Creamy coleslaw
• Cornbread muffins
• Baked beans
• Macaroni and cheese
• Corn on the cob
• Garden salad
• Potato salad
• Roasted vegetables

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

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

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave, but the texture won’t be as crisp.

Nutrition Information

FAQ About Baked BBQ Chicken Legs

How long do I bake chicken legs at 400°F?

Chicken legs typically need about 35-40 minutes total at 400°F, with the barbecue sauce being added halfway through the cooking time.

Should I cover chicken legs when baking in the oven?

No, for this baked bbq chicken legs recipe, you want to leave them uncovered to allow the skin to get crispy and the sauce to caramelize.

Can I use frozen chicken legs?

It’s best to fully thaw chicken legs before baking for even cooking. If you must use frozen, increase the cooking time by about 50% and check with a thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F internally.

How do I know when chicken legs are done?

Chicken legs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear when pierced.

Can I use boneless chicken instead?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Boneless chicken cooks faster than bone-in pieces.

This baked bbq chicken legs recipe delivers all the flavor of traditional barbecue with the convenience of oven cooking. Perfect for family dinners, game days, or anytime you’re craving that sweet and savory BBQ taste!

Recipe inspired by Allrecipes.com