Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks with Fresh Garden Salad

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to help the skin get crispy and golden.

Step 3: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Rub the oil and spice mixture all over the chicken drumsticks, coating them evenly on all sides.

Step 5: Place the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until partially cooked through.

Step 6: Remove from the oven and brush generously with your BBQ sauce, coating all sides.

Step 7: Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, basting with additional sauce halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.

Step 8: While the chicken finishes cooking, prepare your salad by combining lettuce, cucumber slices, and halved cherry tomatoes in a large bowl.

Step 9: Drizzle your salad with olive oil or vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.

Step 10: Serve the warm BBQ chicken drumsticks alongside the fresh garden salad and enjoy.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover baked BBQ chicken drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They make excellent cold snacks straight from the fridge or can be reheated gently.

To reheat, place the drumsticks on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 325°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This prevents the glaze from burning while keeping the meat juicy.

The fresh salad is best enjoyed immediately, but you can prep the vegetables ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and dress.

This dish also freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.