Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Drumsticks with BBQ Sauce

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If you’re looking to elevate your chicken drumsticks to the next level, this recipe is for you! These drumsticks are wrapped in crispy bacon, seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic, and then glazed with a rich BBQ sauce. The result is a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a backyard barbecue. The combination of smoky bacon, tender chicken, and tangy BBQ sauce creates an irresistible flavor that’s sure to be a hit with everyone.

Ingredients

  • 2 lb chicken drumsticks (approximately 1 kg): Choose drumsticks with skin for extra crispiness.
  • 0.44 lb fresh or smoked bacon (about 200 grams), thinly sliced: The key to adding smokiness and crispy texture.
  • 3-4 tablespoons BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade): Provides a sweet, tangy glaze.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a bold, aromatic flavor to the seasoning.
  • A handful of fresh parsley, chopped: For a fresh garnish that adds color and flavor.
  • Salt to taste: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and bacon.
  • Smoked paprika to taste: Adds a smoky, slightly spicy kick.
  • Olive oil for cooking: Helps crisp up the bacon and adds richness.

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken Drumsticks

  1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken drumsticks with salt, smoked paprika, and minced garlic. Make sure to rub the seasoning evenly over each drumstick, ensuring the flavors penetrate the meat.
  2. Wrap with Bacon: Take a slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around each chicken drumstick. If needed, you can secure the bacon with toothpicks to keep it in place during cooking. Repeat this process until all drumsticks are wrapped.

Cooking the Drumsticks

Option 1: Oven Method

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Bake the Drumsticks: Place the bacon-wrapped drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a baking rack. Drizzle them with a little olive oil to help the bacon crisp up. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, turning them halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
  3. Glaze with BBQ Sauce: In the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the drumsticks generously with BBQ sauce and return them to the oven. This allows the sauce to caramelize and form a sticky glaze.

Option 2: Grill Method

  1. Heat Up the Grill : Set your grill to medium-high heat and let it warm up.
  2. Grill the Drumsticks: Place the bacon-wrapped drumsticks on the grill and cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Cook until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
  3. Glaze with BBQ Sauce: During the last 5 minutes of grilling, brush the drumsticks with BBQ sauce and allow them to caramelize on the grill.

Serving the Drumsticks

  1. Garnish and Serve: Once the drumsticks are cooked and glazed, remove them from the oven or grill. Allow them to rest briefly so the juices can settle. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a touch of brightness.
  2. Enjoy: Serve the crispy bacon-wrapped drumsticks hot, alongside your favorite sides like coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or cornbread.

Conclusion

These crispy bacon-wrapped chicken drumsticks with BBQ sauce are a decadent and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. The combination of smoky bacon, tender chicken, and sweet-tangy BBQ sauce is simply irresistible. Whether you bake them in the oven or grill them outdoors, these drumsticks are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

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