The Best BBQ Chicken Drumsticks with Fries & Buns – Quick & Delicious

Craving a backyard BBQ vibe without going overboard? These BBQ Chicken Drumsticks served with crispy fries and soft buns deliver all the smoky, saucy goodness of a cookout classic—just made smarter. Whether you’re prepping a weekend meal, hosting friends, or planning a weeknight dinner the whole family will love, this balanced plate brings together bold flavor and feel-good satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy & Flavorful – The drumsticks are seasoned, roasted, and slathered in tangy barbecue sauce for that smoky-sweet finish.
• Crispy Fries, No Deep Fryer – Oven-baked fries are crisp on the outside, tender inside, and lightly seasoned to perfection.
• Complete & Comforting – Served with light burger buns to make BBQ chicken sandwiches or enjoy as a hearty side.
• Better-for-You BBQ – All the flavor of your favorite cookout meal with fewer calories and less fat.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 8 chicken drumsticks, skin removed
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup reduced-sugar barbecue sauce

For the Fries:

• 3 medium russet potatoes, cut into fries
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving:

• 4 light burger buns
• Optional: sliced pickles, coleslaw, or a side salad

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Set oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Season and Bake the Chicken

Place drumsticks on one baking sheet. Sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bake for 25 minutes, then brush with BBQ sauce and return to oven for another 10–15 minutes, until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F).

Make the Fries

Toss potato fries in olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on the second baking sheet. Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Assemble and Serve

Toast buns if desired. Serve drumsticks with fries and buns on the side, or pull chicken from the bone to create delicious BBQ chicken sandwiches.

Nutritional Info

• Calories: ~410
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 6g

Tips for Success

• Remove the Skin – Helps cut down on fat without sacrificing flavor.
• Soak the Fries – Letting your potato slices soak in cold water for 20 minutes before baking makes them extra crispy.
• Broil for a Finish – Broil drumsticks for 1–2 minutes at the end for a caramelized BBQ glaze.
• Add Freshness – Pair with a tangy slaw or cucumber salad for a refreshing side.

Why This Recipe Works

This meal strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and smart. By baking the fries and using skinless drumsticks with a lighter BBQ sauce, you get all the satisfaction of classic comfort food while keeping it better for you. It’s hearty, easy to prepare, and customizable for everyone at the table.

BBQ Chicken Drumsticks with Fries & Buns is a flavorful, filling meal that delivers big on taste and comfort. Perfect for any night of the week, this lighter spin on a backyard favorite is one you’ll want to come back to again and again.