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Dry Rub Chicken Drumsticks Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Rub
If you need a foolproof recipe that delivers crispy, flavorful chicken legs every time, try these dry rub chicken drumsticks! They are the perfect combination of sweet and spicy, made with a simple spice rub and baked until perfectly tender and juicy.
The secret to maximizing the flavor? Letting the drumsticks "age" in the fridge so the dry rub fully penetrates the meat. Follow this easy recipe to create juicy, tender, crispy drumsticks that will disappear in no time!
Whether you prefer to bake chicken or grill chicken (my husband's favorite), this recipe works both ways!
Why You'll Love These Dry Rub Drumsticks
- Bold flavors: The perfect balance of sweetness from the sweetener and just the right amount of heat from cayenne and chili powder.
- Simple ingredients: You likely already have everything you need in your pantry to make this delicious dry rub.
- Crispy finish: The chicken skin becomes extra crispy in the oven, making these drumsticks irresistible.
- Make ahead: Prep the drumsticks in the morning and let them rest in the fridge during the day for an easy meal that evening.
Ingredients for Sweet and Spicy Dry Rub Seasoning
Dry Rub Ingredients
- ¾ cup sugar substitute
- ¼ cup smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
How to Make Dry Rub Drumsticks
Step 1: prepare the sweet and spicy dry rub
In a gallon-sized freezer bag, mix the sugar substitute, smoked paprika, salt, cornstarch, and the rest of the seasonings.
Give the bag a good shake to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Step 2: coat the chicken drumsticks with the spice rub
Place 3 or 4 chicken drumsticks into the freezer bag with the dry rub at a time. Shake the bag until each drumstick is thoroughly coated in the spice mix.
Remove the drumsticks from the bag, shaking off any excess seasoning, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Refrigerate and "Age" the Drumsticks
For the best results, allow the dry rub chicken drumsticks to "age" in the fridge for 8 hours, or overnight.
This step is key to ensuring the flavors soak deeply into the chicken, creating juicy, well-seasoned drumsticks.
Step 4: Bake chicken
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Once the chicken has aged in the fridge, bake the drumsticks in the oven for 60 to 70 minutes.
You can use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The meat is ready when the internal temperature has reached 170°F (77°C). This low and slow method results in tender meat and crispy skin.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the drumsticks from the oven and allow them to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
This helps retain the juices and keeps the chicken tender.
Tips for Perfect Dry Rub Chicken Drumsticks
- Customize the heat: If you prefer less spice, reduce the cayenne pepper. If you like it extra spicy, feel free to add a bit more.
- Crispy finish: For extra crispy skin, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking (please keep a close eye on it though - broiling can go FAST)!
FAQs
Why refrigerate the chicken drumsticks for 8 hours?
Letting the chicken sit in the fridge allows the dry rub to absorb into the meat fully. This "aging" process allows the seasoning to penetrate deep into the chicken, making it extra flavorful.
Plus, it helps dry out the skin, which results in a crispier texture when baked.
Can I use the dry rub on other cuts of chicken?
Absolutely! This sweet and spicy dry rub works just as well on chicken thighs, chicken wings, or even chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the cut.
You can also use this dry rub for pork chops!
Can I cook the drumsticks in the air fryer?
Yes, coat the chicken legs with the spice mix, and let them "age" in the refrigerator for 8 hours. Then follow the instructions for Air Fryer Chicken Legs!
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through for best results.
Ingredients
- ¾ Cup Sugar Substitute
- ¼ Cup Smoked Paprika
- 1 Tablespoon Salt
- 1 Tablespoon Cornstarch
- 2 Teaspoons Black Pepper
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Chili Powder
- ½ Teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- 1 Dozen Chicken Drumstitcks
Instructions
- Prepare a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the sugar substitute, paprika, cornstarch, and seasonings into a gallon sized freezer bag and shake to combine.
- Place 3 or 4 chicken drumsticks into the bag at a time and shake to coat the chicken in the seasonings. Remove the chicken from the bag and shake to remove any excess seasoning blend. Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
- Refrigerate the chicken for 8 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.
- Bake the chicken for 60 to 70 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 170 degrees.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes prior to serving.
Nutrition
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