BBQ Chicken Lollipops are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional drumsticks, with the meat shaped into “lollipops” for a cleaner, more elegant presentation. Grilled or baked until juicy and tender, then brushed with a sticky, smoky barbecue sauce, these meaty bites are perfect for cookouts, parties, or family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe turns everyday chicken drumsticks into an eye-catching, flavorful treat. The lollipop technique makes them easy to handle — ideal for appetizers or main dishes — while the BBQ seasoning and glaze deliver bold, smoky, and sweet notes. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or baking in the oven, these chicken lollipops are sure to impress with their look and taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- chicken drumsticks
- olive oil
- garlic powder
- smoked paprika
- salt
- black pepper
- barbecue sauce
- foil (for wrapping the bones)
Directions
- Prepare the drumsticks by cutting around the base (near the knuckle) with a sharp knife. Push the meat and skin down toward the thick end to create a lollipop shape.
- Rub the shaped drumsticks with olive oil.
- Season evenly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the chicken on the grill or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cook for 35–40 minutes, turning occasionally if grilling.
- In the final 5 minutes, brush the drumsticks generously with barbecue sauce and continue cooking until the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
- Wrap the exposed bones with foil for clean presentation and easier handling.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional BBQ sauce if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 3 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: 280 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or use a spicy BBQ sauce for heat.
- Oven-Broiled Finish: For extra caramelization, broil the lollipops for 2–3 minutes after saucing.
- Asian-Inspired: Use teriyaki or hoisin sauce instead of BBQ for a fusion flavor.
- Honey Garlic Glaze: Swap BBQ sauce for a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and garlic.
- Herbed Coating: Add dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the seasoning mix for an herby note.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, which may soften the skin and reduce crispiness.
FAQs
What are chicken lollipops?
Chicken lollipops are drumsticks with the meat pushed down to one end, exposing the bone to resemble a lollipop, making them easier and tidier to eat.
Can I use wings or thighs instead?
Wings can be shaped similarly, but thighs are better left whole due to their structure. Drumsticks work best for the lollipop shape.
Is it necessary to wrap the bones in foil?
Foil protects hands from heat and gives a polished presentation — especially helpful for serving guests.
Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Yes. Bake at 375°F for 35–40 minutes, then finish with BBQ sauce and bake or broil for an additional 5 minutes.
What BBQ sauce works best?
Use your favorite style — smoky, sweet, spicy, or tangy — depending on your flavor preference.
How do I get crispy skin?
Ensure the drumsticks are dry before seasoning and cook uncovered. A hot oven or grill helps render the skin crisp.
Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
You can shape and season the drumsticks a day ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
How do I prevent the BBQ sauce from burning?
Apply the sauce only in the last few minutes of cooking to avoid scorching due to its sugar content.
What should I serve with these?
Serve with coleslaw, corn on the cob, potato salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes. Cooked and cooled lollipops can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until hot and crisp.
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Lollipops are an exciting way to elevate your chicken drumstick game. With their unique presentation, smoky-sweet flavor, and juicy interior, they’re perfect for everything from casual dinners to backyard barbecues. Whether grilled or baked, these sticky, savory lollipops are guaranteed to be a hit at the table.
PrintBBQ Chicken Lollipops
Smoky, sweet, and sticky chicken drumsticks shaped into “lollipops” — grilled to perfection and brushed with rich barbecue sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 6 chicken drumsticks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- Foil (for wrapping bones)
Instructions
- Using a sharp knife, cut around the base of each drumstick and push the meat down to create a “lollipop” shape.
- In a bowl, toss the lollipops with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Preheat the grill or oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken lollipops on the grill or a baking tray lined with foil. Cook for 35–40 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
- Brush the lollipops with BBQ sauce and grill or bake for an additional 5 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
- Wrap the exposed bones with small pieces of foil for easier handling and a cleaner presentation.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Soak drumsticks in a brine beforehand for extra juiciness.
- Use your favorite BBQ sauce — smoky, spicy, or sweet.
- Perfect for parties, game day, or outdoor grilling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 drumsticks
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 110mg