| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 365 | 20g | 5g | 16g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 15g | 1g | 30g | 0.6g |
If there’s one dish that embodies the essence of both comfort and health, it’s got to be my Vegetable-Based Barbecue Chicken Drumsticks. Think of them as a delicious homage to my sunny Californian roots, where the focus on health-conscious eating is as strong as our love for all-American barbecue. The blend of nutritious chicken drumsticks smothered in a tangy barbecue sauce offers a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate, making this the absolute star recipe of any backyard BBQ or family dinner. You can view the mouth-watering image of this dish here.
Health in Every Bite
Now, if you’re wondering about the health benefits of this dish, let me assure you they are aplenty. The ingredients hold a wealth of nutritional goodness. It carries the wholesome protein from the chicken drumsticks – a lower-fat alternative to many other cuts. Additionally, the antioxidants from the garlic, the paprika, and the cayenne pepper not only provide robust flavors but also contribute to an overall well-balanced diet. And let’s not forget the lemon – nature’s vitamin C powerhouse.
Pairings that Elevate
Vegetable-Based Barbecue Chicken Drumsticks are incredibly versatile and can be paired with numerous dishes. If you’re after a classic combo, try it alongside a chilled American macaroni salad. For a true Californian experience, pair it with a Greek Quinoa Salad, which complements the dish’s smoky barbecue flavor while adding a health kick.
This recipe is a true embodiment of my food philosophy: it’s possible to create dishes that feel indulgent while incorporating healthful ingredients. The Vegetable-Based Barbecue Chicken Drumsticks have become a comfort food favorite at our dinner table, and I hope it will become one in yours too.
What You’ll Need
- 12 Chicken Drumsticks
- 1 Cup of Barbecue Sauce
- 1/4 Cup of Honey
- 2 Tablespoons of Olive Oil
- 2 Cloves of Garlic, minced
- 1 Teaspoon of Salt
- 1/2 Teaspoon of Black Pepper
- 1 Teaspoon of Paprika
- 1/2 Teaspoon of Cayenne Pepper
- 1 Lemon, zested and juiced
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange your drumsticks on a baking tray and set aside.
Step Two
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, the zest from your lemon, and its juice. Stir all the ingredients thoroughly until you get a consistent sauce.
Step Three
Now, using a pastry brush or your hands, generously baste the chicken drumsticks with your prepared sauce. Make sure you coat them evenly on all sides.
Step Four
Once you’ve finished basting, place the tray in the preheated oven. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. We recommend turning the drumsticks every 15 minutes so they cook evenly and the skin gets crisp.
Step Five
After the chicken is done, remove the tray from the oven and let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes to cool down slightly. Serve them warm, drizzled with any leftover barbecue sauce mixture.
Note: These barbecue chicken drumsticks pair beautifully with a side of coleslaw or roasted vegetables. Enjoy your meal!
