Welcome to your new favorite recipe for incredible Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks! These oven-baked delights are an effortless culinary choice, perfect for fueling enthusiastic game day crowds, simplifying busy weeknight dinners, or adding a zesty kick to your summer BBQs. Each succulent, juicy drumstick is generously coated in our signature, finger-licking homemade buffalo sauce, promising an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Imagine crispy chicken skin giving way to tender, moist meat, all enveloped in that perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy buffalo goodness. This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a versatile crowd-pleaser that will have everyone reaching for more. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, our straightforward approach ensures a flawless result every time. Get ready to elevate your meal prep and entertaining with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness!
Ultimate Oven-Baked Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks: Your Go-To Recipe for Flavorful Fun
These buffalo chicken drumsticks truly tick all the boxes for a fantastic meal. They are irresistibly delicious, consistently rank as an all-around family favorite, and offer a healthier alternative to deep-fried options, taking just about 5 minutes of active preparation time. The magic happens after baking, when the drumsticks emerge from the oven with beautifully crispy skin, ready to be tossed in our super simple yet profoundly flavorful homemade buffalo sauce. This sauce, a harmonious blend of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce and rich brown sugar, creates an unforgettable glaze that’s both sweet and spicy.
One of the many reasons to adore this recipe is its incredible versatility. While we focus on the oven-baked method for convenience and consistent results, these drumsticks can also be perfectly grilled for that smoky BBQ flavor or quickly air-fried for an extra-crispy finish. No matter your chosen cooking method, they are guaranteed to turn out amazing. Furthermore, the accompanying buffalo chicken sauce recipe isn’t just for drumsticks; it’s perfect for wings, various appetizers, or adding a vibrant kick to almost any chicken dish you can imagine. Its balance of heat and sweetness makes it universally appealing.
Why These Buffalo Drumsticks Are a Must-Try
- Effortlessly Delicious: Achieve restaurant-quality flavor with minimal fuss. Our recipe emphasizes simplicity without compromising on taste, making it ideal for cooks of all skill levels.
- Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: From children to adults, the classic buffalo flavor combined with tender chicken drumsticks is universally loved. It’s the kind of dish that disappears quickly at any gathering.
- Healthier Indulgence: Baking the drumsticks significantly reduces the fat content compared to frying, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying way to enjoy buffalo chicken. You get all the flavor without the guilt.
- Unbelievably Versatile: Adapt this recipe to your lifestyle and equipment. Whether you prefer the even bake of an oven, the smoky char of a grill, or the speedy crispness of an air fryer, these drumsticks deliver.
- Signature Homemade Buffalo Sauce: The star of the show! Our simple two-ingredient sauce made with Frank’s Red Hot and brown sugar is a game-changer. It creates a sticky, savory-sweet glaze with just the right amount of heat, making every bite irresistible.
The Secret to Perfect Buffalo Chicken: Our Irresistible Homemade Sauce
The heart of any truly great buffalo chicken dish lies in its sauce, and our homemade version is nothing short of legendary. What makes it so special? It’s the elegant simplicity and the perfect synergy between two key ingredients: Frank’s Red Hot Sauce and brown sugar. Frank’s offers that iconic cayenne pepper kick and vinegary tang that defines classic buffalo flavor, while brown sugar introduces a crucial sweetness and depth, transforming the sauce into a glossy, caramelized glaze that adheres beautifully to the drumsticks.
This sauce isn’t just easy to make; it’s a revelation. Simmering these two ingredients for just a couple of minutes creates a richer, slightly thicker sauce that coats the chicken perfectly, creating a craveable sweet-and-spicy experience. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s guaranteed to become your secret weapon in the kitchen. Bookmark this page, because this buffalo sauce is so versatile, you’ll want to use it for everything from oven-baked buffalo chicken wings to Franks Buffalo Chicken Dip, Crockpot Buffalo Chicken, Buffalo Taquitos, and even as a vibrant glaze for burgers or steaks. It’s the ultimate flavor booster!
Serving Suggestions to Complete Your Meal
Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can transform your meal into a truly memorable feast. For a classic counterpoint to the spicy heat, offer a generous bowl of creamy homemade ranch dressing or a robust blue cheese dressing. The cool, tangy notes of these dips are the perfect antidote to the buffalo spice.
Beyond the dips, consider these delightful accompaniments:
- Cool and Crisp Veggies: Celery and carrot sticks are traditional choices, offering a refreshing crunch that complements the rich chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a more substantial side, consider Oven-Roasted Asparagus, which adds a fresh, slightly earthy flavor, or roasted broccoli, lightly seasoned to let the buffalo flavors shine.
- Hearty Potatoes: Creamy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes with Parmesan and Rosemary provide a comforting starch, or a simple baked potato can soak up any extra sauce.
- Fresh Salads: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette or a tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing balance to the rich chicken.
- Rice or Quinoa: For a complete meal, serve the drumsticks alongside a bed of fluffy white rice or nutritious quinoa, allowing them to absorb the delicious sauce.
Watch How It’s Done: Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks Video Guide
Seeing is believing, especially when it comes to cooking! For those who prefer visual guidance, our comprehensive video tutorial walks you through every step of making these easy buffalo chicken drumsticks and the delicious homemade sauce. Watch as we prepare the chicken, bake it to golden perfection, and then generously coat it in that irresistible buffalo glaze. This video is designed to make the process even more straightforward, ensuring you achieve perfect results on your very first try.
Essential Ingredients for Your Buffalo Drumsticks
Crafting the perfect buffalo chicken drumsticks requires only a handful of readily available ingredients. The quality of these components is key to achieving that signature flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Drumsticks: These are a fantastic choice for this recipe, not only because they are incredibly inexpensive but also because they are remarkably simple to cook. The dark meat in drumsticks stays wonderfully moist and flavorful during baking. For dinner, plan on serving about 2-3 drumsticks per adult, and 1 per child, depending on their size and appetite. Opt for skin-on drumsticks for the crispiest results!
- Salt and Pepper: Simple yet essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the chicken. Don’t skimp on a good seasoning before baking.
- Brown Sugar: This ingredient is crucial for balancing the heat of the hot sauce and creating that beautiful, sticky glaze. While dark brown sugar will lend a deeper, more molasses-like flavor, light brown sugar works perfectly well and provides a delightful sweetness.
- Frank’s Red Hot Sauce: This recipe is specifically formulated around the iconic flavor profile of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce. Its distinctive cayenne pepper base and vinegary tang are what give buffalo sauce its authentic taste. If you choose to use another brand of hot sauce, be aware that you may need to adjust the amount of brown sugar or other seasonings to achieve the desired balance of heat and sweetness, as different hot sauces vary greatly in intensity and flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Bake Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks to Perfection
Achieving perfectly baked, tender, and juicy buffalo chicken drumsticks is a breeze with our clear, concise instructions. Follow these steps for an outstanding meal:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to a steady 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even cooking and crispy skin from the moment the chicken goes in.
- Prepare the Drumsticks: Begin by carefully inspecting your chicken drumsticks. Trim away any excess skin or visible fat. This step helps prevent soggy skin and excessive grease. Next, it’s crucial to thoroughly pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. Removing moisture from the skin is the secret to achieving that coveted crispy exterior. Finally, generously sprinkle both sides of each drumstick with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Bake to Golden Crispness: Arrange the seasoned chicken drumsticks in a single layer on a baking sheet. For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking, line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. After this initial baking time, carefully flip each drumstick over to ensure even cooking and browning on all sides. Continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) as measured with a meat thermometer at the thickest part, avoiding the bone. The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
- Master Your Homemade Buffalo Sauce: While the chicken bakes, prepare your irresistible buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the Frank’s Red Hot Sauce and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved and the sauce is slightly thickened. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before using.
- Toss and Serve: Once the drumsticks are perfectly baked, transfer them from the baking sheet to a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared homemade buffalo sauce over the hot drumsticks. Using tongs, gently toss the drumsticks until each piece is thoroughly coated in the glorious, sticky sauce. Serve immediately with your favorite accompaniments like blue cheese dressing, ranch, and crisp celery sticks. Enjoy the explosion of flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks
The baking time for chicken drumsticks can vary based on their size and your oven’s calibration. Generally, chicken drumsticks take approximately 35-45 minutes to bake at 400°F (200°C). Chicken legs and thighs, being dark meat, benefit from cooking to a slightly higher internal temperature (around 170-175°F or 77-79°C) than white meat, as this helps break down connective tissue, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat. Always confirm doneness with a meat thermometer.
Absolutely! Air frying is a fantastic method for achieving incredibly crispy buffalo chicken drumsticks. Place the prepped and seasoned chicken drumsticks in your air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Make sure to flip the drumsticks halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) before tossing in sauce.
Yes, grilling adds a wonderful smoky char to buffalo drumsticks! Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. You can cook them using indirect heat first (over the unlit side of the grill if using gas, or away from direct coals if using charcoal) for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until almost cooked through. Then, move them to direct heat for 5-10 minutes, brushing generously with buffalo sauce during the last 5 minutes of grilling to create a caramelized glaze and slight char. Monitor closely to prevent burning the sauce.
An average chicken drumstick typically weighs about 4 ounces (113 grams) and yields approximately 1.5 ounces (42 grams) of meat once the bone and skin are removed. For adults, it’s generally a good idea to plan for about 2-3 drumsticks per person, especially if it’s the main course. For children, 1 drumstick per person is usually sufficient.
While Frank’s Red Hot Sauce is highly recommended for its classic flavor profile, you can experiment with other cayenne pepper-based hot sauces. However, be aware that flavor and heat levels vary significantly between brands. You may need to adjust the amount of brown sugar or add a touch of vinegar (like white vinegar or apple cider vinegar) to achieve the desired balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy that defines authentic buffalo sauce.
Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
The Carefree Kitchen
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Ingredients
Chicken Drumsticks
- 6 large chicken drumsticks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Homemade Buffalo Sauce
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup Frank’s Red Hot Sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200°C).
- Prepare the drumsticks: Remove any excess skin or fat. Pat dry with a paper towel, then sprinkle salt and pepper evenly on both sides of the chicken.
- Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Turn chicken over and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Once cooked through, remove from the oven and transfer to a large bowl. Toss the drumsticks generously in the prepared buffalo sauce until fully coated. Serve with blue cheese dressing or ranch dressing. Enjoy!
How to Make Homemade Buffalo Sauce
- Combine the Franks Red Hot Sauce and the brown sugar in a saucepan on the stove. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring until sugar is dissolved.
- Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly before using or storing in the fridge.
Video
Notes
Reheating: To reheat, you can either microwave your drumsticks until warm or, for best results, place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through and the skin crisps up again.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 36g |
Protein: 13g |
Fat: 7g |
Saturated Fat: 2g |
Trans Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 70mg |
Sodium: 1315mg |
Potassium: 218mg |
Sugar: 36g |
Vitamin A: 35IU |
Calcium: 38mg |
Iron: 1mg
Disclaimer: Nutritional values were calculated using a third-party tool and are provided as an estimation only.
Main Course
American
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This easy Buffalo Drumsticks recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience waiting to happen. If you’re a fan of the bold, vibrant flavors of buffalo chicken, this dish is destined to become a cherished family favorite. Its straightforward preparation makes it perfect for game day feasting, an incredibly simple and satisfying weeknight meal, or truly, just about any time of the year you’re craving something deliciously exciting. Dive in and discover why these oven-baked buffalo chicken drumsticks are the ultimate blend of convenience, flavor, and pure eating joy!
Don’t forget to try out the homemade buffalo sauce on other dishes – its versatility is truly remarkable. We encourage you to share your creations and feedback; your success in the kitchen is our greatest reward. Happy cooking!