Ingredients
To make this crave-worthy dish, you’ll need:
- 2–3 lbs of chicken drumsticks (about 12–16 pieces)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Honey BBQ Glaze:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- ½ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for a little kick)
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking tray with foil and lightly grease it or use a nonstick baking pan.
2. Season the Chicken
In a large bowl, toss the drumsticks with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Bake Round One
Arrange the drumsticks on the tray in a single layer. Bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
4. Make the Glaze
While the chicken bakes, stir together the barbecue sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Let it simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Glaze & Bake Again
Brush a generous layer of the sauce over the chicken. Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the sauce begins to caramelize and stick.
For extra stickiness and color, broil the drumsticks for the last 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your honey BBQ chicken drumsticks with:
- Creamy coleslaw
- Cornbread or biscuits
- Roasted vegetables or baked mac & cheese
- A fresh green salad
Storage Tips
Leftovers? No problem. Store cooled drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the skin crispy.
Final Thoughts
These Sticky Honey BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are the kind of dish that disappears fast. Juicy, flavorful, and drenched in a glaze that hits every taste bud, they’re a must-make for any chicken lover. Whether it’s a weekend cookout or a cozy night in, this recipe brings the heat and the sweet—without ever firing up the grill.