Savor the smoky, savory flavors of these Low Sodium BBQ Chicken Drumsticks, a healthier spin on a classic favorite. Perfect for those watching their sodium intake, these drumsticks are marinated in a tantalizing blend of smoked paprika, garlic, and onion powder, then baked to golden perfection. The homemade BBQ sauce, crafted from low-sodium ketchup, honey, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of liquid smoke, delivers a robust, tangy sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken. Ready in under an hour, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Pair these juicy drumsticks with fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal that doesnβt skimp on flavor!
Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top of the foil.
In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Brush the mixture all over the chicken drumsticks, ensuring they are well coated.
Arrange the coated drumsticks on the wire rack, ensuring that they are not touching each other for even cooking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
While the chicken is baking, prepare the low-sodium BBQ sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine low sodium ketchup, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke (if using). Stir occasionally and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
After the chicken has baked for 25 minutes, remove it from the oven and brush generously with the prepared BBQ sauce.
Return the drumsticks to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165Β°F (74Β°C). The skin should be crispy, and the BBQ sauce should be slightly caramelized.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your low-sodium BBQ chicken drumsticks with your favorite sides!
Calories |
2125 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 102.2 g | 131% | |
| Saturated Fat | 25.2 g | 126% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 744 mg | 248% | |
| Sodium | 832 mg | 36% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 131.2 g | 48% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.2 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 108.9 g | ||
| Protein | 181.5 g | 363% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 170 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 10.4 mg | 58% | |
| Potassium | 2832 mg | 60% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.