Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Chicken Drumsticks
These delicious drumsticks are wrapped in crispy bacon and coated with a caramelized brown sugar glaze, making them a perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 pieces chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds) Skin-on for extra crispness.
- 8 slices thin-cut bacon One per drumstick, or use 1 1/2 slices for extra coverage.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar Light or dark, depending on preference.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds warmth and a gentle smoky note.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder For savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder Rounds the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Adjust if your bacon is very salty.
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps the sugar adhere and promotes browning.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne Optional, for a hint of heat.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Optional, for tang.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and set a wire rack on top for even airflow.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the drumsticks with olive oil, then press the brown sugar mixture all over each drumstick.
- Wrap each drumstick with a slice of bacon, overlapping slightly and tucking the end underneath.
- Place the drumsticks on the wire rack and bake for 25 minutes.
- Broil for an additional 3–5 minutes if you want the bacon extra-crisp — watch closely.
- Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a festive twist, sprinkle chopped fresh rosemary or thyme over the drumsticks just before serving. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or coleslaw.