There’s nothing quite like the tantalizing aroma of smoky bacon and sizzling BBQ glaze wafting through the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, preparing a family dinner, or just indulging in some comfort food, Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Drumsticks with Homemade BBQ Glaze will take center stage. This recipe is the ultimate combination of crispy, smoky bacon, tender chicken, and a sticky, flavorful BBQ glaze that’s impossible to resist.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, this dish is a showstopper. So, grab your apron, and let’s get started on a recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Drumsticks
These smoky bacon-wrapped drumsticks are the perfect blend of flavor and texture. The crispy bacon on the outside locks in the chicken’s juiciness, while the BBQ glaze adds a sweet and smoky kick. Plus, they’re versatile—great for parties, weeknight dinners, or even meal prep.
What makes this dish so special is the way it combines indulgence with simplicity. Wrapping drumsticks in bacon elevates them from ordinary to extraordinary, and the homemade BBQ glaze ensures they’re packed with flavor. Once you’ve tried this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Ingredients for Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Drumsticks
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken drumsticks | 2 lb (approximately 1 kg) |
| Bacon (fresh or smoked) | 0.44 lb (200 grams), thinly sliced |
| BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade) | 3-4 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | A handful |
| Salt | To taste |
| Smoked paprika | To taste |
| Olive oil | For cooking |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Drumsticks
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Rinse the chicken drumsticks under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season the drumsticks generously with salt, smoked paprika, and minced garlic. Rub the seasonings evenly into the chicken for maximum flavor.
2. Wrap the Drumsticks
- Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each drumstick. Start at the top and work your way down, ensuring the bacon covers as much of the chicken as possible.
- Use toothpicks to secure the bacon in place if needed. This step will keep the bacon from unraveling during cooking.
3. Sear the Drumsticks
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the bacon-wrapped drumsticks to the skillet and sear them on all sides until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Bake the Drumsticks
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the drumsticks for 20-25 minutes. Check to ensure the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
5. Glaze with BBQ Sauce
- Remove the skillet from the oven and generously brush each drumstick with BBQ sauce.
- Return the drumsticks to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the BBQ glaze to caramelize, creating a sticky, smoky coating.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Once cooked, let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
- Serve hot, with extra BBQ sauce on the side if desired.
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
1. The Perfect Balance of Flavors
The smoky paprika, salty bacon, and sweet BBQ sauce come together in perfect harmony. Every bite is packed with bold, satisfying flavors.
2. Crispy Yet Juicy
The bacon crisps up beautifully during cooking, while the chicken remains juicy and tender inside. This recipe ensures a perfect texture every time.
3. A Versatile Dish
Whether you’re serving these drumsticks as a main dish, party appetizer, or snack, they’re guaranteed to impress. They pair beautifully with a variety of sides, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Drumstick)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Sodium | 420mg |
| Fiber | 0g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
Tips for Making the Best Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Drumsticks
- Use Thinly Sliced Bacon: Thin slices cook more evenly and crisp up better in the oven.
- Don’t Skip the Searing Step: Searing the drumsticks before baking ensures the bacon gets nice and crispy while locking in the chicken’s moisture.
- Customize the BBQ Sauce: You can use your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own for a personal touch. Add a splash of honey, sriracha, or Worcestershire sauce to adjust the flavor.
- Monitor the Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking the drumsticks to keep them tender and juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Experiment with Spices: Add a touch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Bacon-wrapped chicken drumsticks are incredibly versatile and pair well with many sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Mashed Potatoes: A creamy, comforting side that complements the smoky flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try carrots, zucchini, or asparagus for a healthy, colorful addition.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy salad balances the richness of the chicken.
- Cornbread: A sweet and savory bread that works perfectly with the BBQ glaze.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch, honey mustard, or extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
FAQs About Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Drumsticks
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Yes, you can! Chicken thighs work just as well in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re fully cooked.
2. What if I don’t have an ovenproof skillet?
No problem! After searing the drumsticks, transfer them to a baking dish to finish cooking in the oven.
3. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a leaner option and works well in this recipe. Keep in mind that it may not crisp up as much as pork bacon.
4. How can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
This recipe is already low in carbs, but you can use a sugar-free BBQ sauce to make it completely keto-friendly.
5. Can I make these drumsticks ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the drumsticks (wrap them in bacon and season them) a few hours ahead. Store them in the fridge and cook them just before serving.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispy texture.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try This Recipe Today
Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Drumsticks with Homemade BBQ Glaze are a delicious way to elevate a simple ingredient into a gourmet meal. Perfectly seasoned, wrapped in crispy bacon, and coated in a sticky BBQ glaze, these drumsticks are as impressive as they are satisfying.
Whether you’re cooking for a party or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to steal the show. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love.
Ready to make your kitchen smell amazing? Try this recipe today and savor the smoky, juicy goodness of bacon-wrapped chicken drumsticks!
Print
Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Drumsticks with Homemade BBQ Glaze
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
Description
Get ready to elevate your chicken dinner with this irresistible recipe for Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Drumsticks with Homemade BBQ Glaze. Juicy drumsticks are wrapped in smoky bacon, seared to crispy perfection, and glazed with a sticky, tangy BBQ sauce that caramelizes in the oven. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family meal, or looking for a gourmet twist on a classic, these drumsticks are guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 lb chicken drumsticks (approximately 1 kg)
- 0.44 lb fresh or smoked bacon (about 200 grams), thinly sliced
- 3–4 tablespoons BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt, to taste
- Smoked paprika, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Rinse the chicken drumsticks under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season the drumsticks generously with salt, smoked paprika, and minced garlic. Rub the seasonings into the chicken to coat evenly.
Step 2: Wrap the Drumsticks
- Take a slice of bacon and tightly wrap it around each drumstick, starting at the top and working your way down.
- Use toothpicks to secure the bacon if necessary.
Step 3: Sear the Drumsticks
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place the bacon-wrapped drumsticks into the skillet and sear them on all sides until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Bake the Drumsticks
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
Step 5: Glaze with BBQ Sauce
- Remove the skillet from the oven and generously brush each drumstick with BBQ sauce.
- Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the BBQ glaze to caramelize.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the drumsticks for garnish.
- Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side if desired.
Notes
- BBQ Sauce Tip: Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own for a personal touch. Add honey or sriracha for a sweet or spicy twist.
- Crispy Bacon Tip: Sear the drumsticks thoroughly before baking to ensure the bacon crisps up nicely.
- Alternative Cooking Method: You can grill these drumsticks instead of baking them for an extra smoky flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Oven-Baked and Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: American
