How to Make Barbecue Spice-Roasted Chicken Drumsticks with White BBQ Sauce

These Barbecue Spice-Roasted Chicken Drumsticks are a flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Coated in a smoky, well-balanced spice rub and roasted to juicy perfection, they pair beautifully with a creamy, tangy white barbecue sauce that adds brightness and a touch of zest. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts, this dish delivers bold taste with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tender & Juicy – Oven-roasting keeps drumsticks moist and full of flavor.
Smoky Spice Rub – A blend of spices that brings warmth and depth without overpowering.
Creamy White Sauce – Tangy and slightly sweet, it complements the savory chicken perfectly.
Simple Prep – Minimal ingredients and hands-on time for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the white barbecue sauce:

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp light mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Spice Rub
In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Coat the Chicken
Pat drumsticks dry and toss with olive oil. Rub the spice mixture all over each drumstick, ensuring even coverage.

4. Roast the Chicken
Arrange drumsticks on the baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway, until skin is crisp and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Make the White Barbecue Sauce
While the chicken roasts, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.

6. Serve
Plate the drumsticks and serve with a generous dollop of white barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 280
Protein: 32g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Dry the Chicken – Patting drumsticks dry helps the skin crisp up nicely.
• Use Smoked Paprika – It’s key for that authentic smoky barbecue flavor.
• Adjust Sauce Sweetness – Add more honey if you prefer a sweeter sauce.
• Serve with Fresh Sides – Crisp salad or steamed veggies complement this dish well.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of a smoky, well-seasoned chicken with a cool, creamy white barbecue sauce creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Roasting the drumsticks at a high temperature ensures crispy skin and juicy meat, while the sauce adds a refreshing contrast.

These Barbecue Spice-Roasted Chicken Drumsticks with White Barbecue Sauce offer a simple yet bold way to enjoy chicken with a smoky twist and creamy tangy dip. Perfectly balanced and easy to prepare, they make for a delicious meal any day of the week.