There’s something magical about the aroma of BBQ chicken wafting through the air, isn’t there? It takes me back to backyard cookouts, laughter, and those warm summer evenings spent with friends and family. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that brings all those nostalgic memories to your kitchen in no time! These BBQ Chicken Drumsticks with Fries and Coleslaw are not only easy to prepare but also a crowd favorite that you can whip up in under an hour. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love BBQ Chicken Drumsticks with Fries & Coleslaw 🥗🔥
- Fast: You can have the main components prepped and on the table in about 30 minutes.
- Easy: It’s a simple “grill and bake” method that anyone can master.
- Giftable: This is a hearty dish that travels well, making it perfect for potlucks or as a comforting meal for friends.
- Crowd-pleasing: Everyone loves BBQ chicken, and this dish is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters!
Ingredients
- For the BBQ Chicken Drumsticks:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For the Fries:
- 4 large potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Optional: paprika or garlic powder for seasoning
- For the Coleslaw:
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make BBQ Chicken Drumsticks with Fries & Coleslaw 🥗🔥
Let’s break it down step by step for a stress-free cooking experience!
- Prepare the Chicken Drumsticks:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Season the chicken drumsticks with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor!
- Grill the drumsticks for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and the juices run clear.
- During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush on your favorite BBQ sauce for that sticky, delicious finish.
- Prepare the Fries:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Cut the potatoes into fry shapes and soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This helps them become crispy!
- Drain and pat the potatoes dry. Toss them with olive oil and season with salt and any optional spices you like.
- Spread the fries on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
- Prepare the Coleslaw:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is well-coated and mixed.
- Serve:
- Plate the BBQ chicken drumsticks alongside a generous portion of fries and coleslaw. Enjoy your meal!
Substitutions & Additions
Feel free to get creative! Here are some ideas:
- Swap out the chicken drumsticks for thighs or wings if you prefer those cuts.
- Try sweet potato fries instead of regular potatoes for a nutritious twist.
- Add some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the coleslaw for an extra pop of flavor.
- For a spicier kick, mix some hot sauce into your BBQ sauce.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to ensure your meal turns out perfect:
- Make sure to season your chicken well before grilling to lock in flavor.
- Soaking the fries is key to achieving that crispy texture, so don’t skip this step!
- Feel free to prepare the coleslaw a few hours ahead of time; it actually tastes better after sitting for a bit.
- Watch the fries closely during the last few minutes in the oven to prevent burning.
How to Store BBQ Chicken Drumsticks with Fries & Coleslaw 🥗🔥
Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store them:
- Store any leftover chicken drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Fries can be kept in a separate container; they are best eaten fresh but can last for about 2 days in the fridge.
- Coleslaw will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, but it may become watery; just give it a good stir before serving again.
FAQs
- Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of grilling?
You absolutely can! Just bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 40-45 minutes, basting with BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes. - Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking. - What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with baked beans or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
If you loved this recipe and want more delicious ideas, be sure to check out my Pinterest for more inspiration!
BBQ Chicken Drumsticks with Crispy Fries & Creamy Coleslaw
Experience the nostalgia of backyard cookouts with these BBQ Chicken Drumsticks paired with crispy fries and creamy coleslaw. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, this dish is perfect for any gathering!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Season the chicken drumsticks with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, and brush on BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes.
- Step 2: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the potatoes into fry shapes, soak in water for about 30 minutes, drain, pat dry, toss with olive oil and seasonings. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour over cabbage mixture and toss until well-coated.
- Step 4: Plate the BBQ chicken drumsticks alongside fries and coleslaw. Enjoy!
Notes
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Fries are best eaten fresh but can last 2 days in the fridge. Coleslaw keeps for up to 3 days but may become watery.