Drumstick Chicken With Spicy BBQ Glaze

Name: Drumstick Chicken With Spicy BBQ Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 chicken drumsticks; 1/2 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt and black pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Dishes

I absolutely love making Drumstick Chicken with Spicy BBQ Glaze for family gatherings. The first time I prepared it, the aroma wafting from the oven drew everyone into the kitchen. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors creates a savory lacquer on juicy chicken that’s simply irresistible. Each bite bursts with taste and offers a lovely char from the grill or the oven. I enjoy serving it with a side of coleslaw or cornbread, making it the perfect meal for any occasion.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:05:35.579Z

When I first attempted the spicy BBQ glaze, I was amazed by how quickly it came together, using pantry staples like ketchup and brown sugar blended with spices. The secret is to balance the heat with the sweetness, creating a glaze that enhances the chicken instead of overpowering it.

During my second try, I marinated the drumsticks for a couple of hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat. The result was a much richer taste, and everyone couldn't get enough! I highly recommend being generous with the glaze during cooking for that extra caramelization.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and spicy flavors that tantalize your taste buds
Juicy chicken that falls off the bone
Perfect for weeknight dinners or summer barbecues

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken drumsticks not only infuses them with flavor but also tenderizes the meat. The acidic components in the marinade, such as apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce, break down proteins, making the chicken juicy and flavorful. If time allows, consider marinating for longer than 30 minutes—up to 4 hours—giving the glaze even more time to penetrate. Just remember not to exceed this time significantly, as overly acidic marinades can cause the meat to become mushy.

An ideal marinade often has a balance of sweet and savory elements. In this recipe, the brown sugar gives the glaze a lovely caramelization when cooked, enhancing the overall sweetness against the spice from the cayenne pepper. If you're looking to adjust the intensity, you can reduce the cayenne for a milder kick or add more for extra heat. Just ensure any adjustments to sugar or spice maintain a balance that complements the chicken.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Drumsticks

Whether you opt for baking or grilling, achieving a golden, crispy skin is key. When baking, use a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Position the rack in the middle of the oven to ensure even cooking. During the last 10 minutes, broil the drumsticks for additional color. Watch closely, as broiling can quickly turn from golden to burnt. If using a grill, make sure to oil the grates to prevent sticking and achieve beautiful grill marks.

For both methods, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is invaluable here, as it takes the guesswork out of doneness. If you find the exterior cooking too quickly while the inside remains undercooked, reduce the heat or move the chicken to a cooler section of the grill. Resting the chicken post-cook also allows the juices to redistribute, making for an even juicier bite.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your delicious Drumstick Chicken with Spicy BBQ Glaze.

Ingredients

8 chicken drumsticks
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and black pepper to taste

Once you have all the ingredients, you are ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make the best Drumstick Chicken with Spicy BBQ Glaze.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to create the spicy glaze.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken drumsticks in a large ziplock bag and pour in half of the marinade. Seal the bag and massage the chicken to ensure it's well-coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Oven or Grill

If using an oven, preheat it to 425°F (220°C). If grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

Bake or Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on a baking sheet or directly on the grill. Brush the remaining glaze over the chicken. Bake for 35-40 minutes in the oven or grill for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until fully cooked.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking, then serve it up with your favorite sides and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the glaze. You can also adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to make it as spicy or mild as you prefer.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your Drumstick Chicken with refreshing sides can elevate the meal. Creamy coleslaw is a classic choice; its crunch and tang beautifully contrast the spicy, rich glaze of the chicken. Alternatively, fluffy cornbread or jalapeño cornbread adds a delightful sweetness and texture that complements the heat. Consider serving it with a side of grilled vegetables for a colorful plate that balances the meal nutritionally.

If you're hosting a gathering, serving the chicken alongside a variety of sauces can cater to different taste preferences. Offer a cooling ranch or blue cheese dip along with your spicy glaze to create a fun dipping platter. This not only gives your guests options but also enhances the interactive dining experience. Remember to have plenty of napkins on hand—things can get deliciously messy!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is great for meal prep! The glazed chicken can be marinated and stored overnight in the fridge, allowing the flavors to deepen significantly. Alternatively, if you're short on time, you can prepare the marinade and chicken up to 3 days in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Cooked drumsticks can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, perfect for packed lunches or easy reheating.

For longer storage, consider freezing the marinade-dressed drumsticks before cooking. Just place them in a ziplock bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge and proceed as directed. Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through, to maintain that appealing crispness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully with the marinade and will produce similarly delicious results.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.

→ Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before using.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

This dish goes well with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad!