Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Name: Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken drumsticks; 1/2 cup hot honey; 1/2 cup barbecue sauce; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper

Published: June 4, 2025

by samuel cullingham

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
The sweet and spicy flavor profile captivates both kids and adults alike
Its stunning golden glaze makes it visually irresistible on any table
Perfect for barbecues but versatile enough for oven-baking or frying

I once served these Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Drumsticks at a potluck, and you’d think I’d discovered fire all over again based on my friends’ reactions, priceless! taco rice bowl for variety.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Chicken Drumsticks: Opt for fresh drumsticks; they’re juicier than frozen ones and absorb flavors better. For more inspiration, check out this Pineapple Coconut Smoothie recipe.
Hot Honey: Use store-bought hot honey or mix honey with red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for a personal touch. For more inspiration, check out this Oven Baked Barbecue Ribs recipe.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for that aromatic depth; fresh garlic works too if you prefer.
Paprika: Smoked paprika adds an extra layer of flavor, trust me, it’s worth it!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors in the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven or Grill: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or fire up the grill to medium heat. This ensures even cooking throughout your drumsticks.

Season Your Drumsticks: Pat dry the chicken drumsticks with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Then season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for that smoky punch.

Create Your Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together hot honey and barbecue sauce until smooth. The mixture should glisten invitingly; that’s how you know it’s ready!

Coat the Chicken: Toss your seasoned drumsticks in the sauce mixture until they’re thoroughly coated. You want each piece dripping with that sweet-spicy goodness.

Bake or Grill Them Up!: If baking, place drumsticks on a lined baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes until cooked through and slightly crispy. If grilling, turn them occasionally until beautifully charred and cooked through, about 20-25 minutes should do.

Serve & Enjoy!: Once done, remove from heat and allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. This step is critical, the juices redistribute so each bite is succulent!

Now you know how to create these delightful Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Drumsticks! Get ready to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills while indulging in serious flavor!

You Must Know

Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are a flavor explosion that will impress everyone at your next gathering
The sweet and spicy glaze creates an irresistible caramelized crust
Pair them with a side of coleslaw for the ultimate summer feast, and watch the compliments roll in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken drumsticks in the hot honey BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes. While they soak up that sweet goodness, preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat for even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the honey for maple syrup or add a splash of lime juice for zing. Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder to create your unique flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F until heated through, maintaining their crispy exterior.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Marinating overnight enhances flavor; don’t skip this step!
Use high-quality honey for a rich taste, and always let the chicken rest before serving for juiciness
Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating and perfect texture

Sometimes I make these drumsticks when friends come over, and watching them devour every bite is pure joy. Nothing beats that satisfied silence after the first few bites!

FAQ

How do I know when my chicken drumsticks are done?

Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! Thighs and wings work well with hot honey BBQ sauce too.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free and you’re good to go!

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📖 Recipe Card