When cooking chicken drumsticks in the oven, it is generally recommended to apply barbecue sauce toward the end of the cooking process. Here's a common approach:
- Preheat your oven to the desired temperature, usually around 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken drumsticks with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or marinades.
- Place the seasoned drumsticks on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan.
- Bake the drumsticks in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes.
- Remove the drumsticks from the oven and brush them with barbecue sauce.
- Return the drumsticks to the oven and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the drumsticks are fully cooked.
- Once cooked, you can brush on some additional barbecue sauce for added flavor, if desired, and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Applying the barbecue sauce toward the end of the cooking process helps prevent the sauce from burning and becoming overly caramelized. It also allows the chicken to cook thoroughly without the sauce interfering with the cooking process. By brushing on the sauce near the end, you can still achieve a flavorful glaze and a delicious barbecue taste without compromising the texture of the chicken.