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Flavorful Smoked Paprika Chicken Drumsticks Recipe with Easy Alabama Sauce

smoked paprika chicken drumsticks - featured image
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This recipe features smoky, spicy chicken drumsticks paired with a creamy, tangy Alabama sauce that adds a Southern twist. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or summer cookouts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds / 900 grams), skin on
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat or dairy-free)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional garnishes: fresh chopped parsley or chives, extra smoked paprika for dusting

Instructions

  1. Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. In a large bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Sprinkle the spice mix over the drumsticks and rub well to cover each piece.
  5. Let sit for 10-15 minutes if time allows to let flavors sink in.
  6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange a wire rack on a baking sheet.
  7. Place drumsticks on the wire rack spaced evenly so they do not touch.
  8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until skin is crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. While chicken bakes, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  10. Taste and adjust sauce seasoning as desired.
  11. Let drumsticks rest for 5 minutes after baking.
  12. Serve warm with a generous drizzle or side of Alabama sauce and garnish with parsley or chives if desired.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is essential for crispy skin. Letting the spice rub rest on the chicken for 10-15 minutes enhances flavor. The Alabama sauce can be made ahead and tastes better after a few hours. Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes to maintain crispiness. For grilling, cook over medium heat for 25-30 minutes, turning often.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked paprika chicken, chicken drumsticks, Alabama sauce, BBQ chicken, creamy sauce, easy chicken recipe, summer cookout, spicy chicken

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/flavorful-smoked-paprika-chicken-drumsticks-recipe-with-easy-alabama-sauce/