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Keto BBQ Chicken Drumsticks - Easy, Smoky, and Low-Carb

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken drumsticks: 8–10 pieces (about 2.5–3 pounds)
  • Avocado or olive oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Sea salt: 1 to 1½ teaspoons
  • Black pepper: 1 teaspoon
  • Smoked paprika: 1 tablespoon
  • Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Onion powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Ground cumin: ½ teaspoon
  • Optional heat: ¼–½ teaspoon cayenne or chili powder
  • Keto BBQ sauce: ½–¾ cup, store-bought sugar-free or homemade (see note below)
  • Apple cider vinegar: 1 teaspoon (to brighten the sauce, optional)
  • Butter: 1 tablespoon (optional, for a glossy finish)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken. Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. Dry skin is key for crisp edges and better browning.
  2. Season generously. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and cayenne if using. Toss drumsticks with oil, then coat evenly with the spice mix.
  3. Choose your cooking method. For the oven, preheat to 425°F (220°C) and line a sheet pan with foil and a wire rack. For the grill, preheat to medium-high and oil the grates. For the air fryer, preheat to 380°F (193°C).
  4. Cook the drumsticks. Oven: Arrange on the rack and bake 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 175–185°F for tender dark meat.
  5. Grill: Grill for 25–30 minutes, turning every 5–7 minutes to prevent burning and to cook evenly.
  6. Air fryer: Cook 22–26 minutes, flipping at the halfway mark, until crisp and cooked through.
  7. Warm the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine keto BBQ sauce with apple cider vinegar. Simmer 2–3 minutes. Whisk in butter for a silky finish, if desired.
  8. Glaze and finish. Brush sauce over the cooked drumsticks and return to heat for 5 minutes: in the oven or air fryer to set the glaze, or on the grill for light caramelization. Brush with a little extra sauce before serving if you like them sticky.
  9. Rest and serve. Let the chicken rest 5 minutes so the juices settle. Serve with extra sauce and your favorite low-carb sides.