Get ready to fire up your grill because we have a mouthwatering recipe that will become your new BBQ favorite – Grilled Chicken Drumsticks! With a tantalizing blend of spices and a smoky char from the grill, these drumsticks are sure to be a hit at your next cookout. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or simply craving some juicy, flavorful chicken, this recipe is a must-try. So grab your apron and get ready to impress your friends and family with this deliciously simple dish.
Ingredients
To make delicious grilled chicken drumsticks, you will need the following ingredients:
- Chicken drumsticks
- BBQ sauce
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Olive oil
- Optional: additional seasonings or herbs
Marinade
Preparation
Before we dive into the marinade, it’s essential to prepare the chicken drumsticks properly. Start by rinsing them under cold water, then pat them dry with a paper towel. This step helps remove any excess moisture and allows the marinade to penetrate the meat more effectively.
Ingredients
For the marinade, you will need the following ingredients:
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Optional: additional seasonings or herbs
Feel free to get creative with the additional seasonings or herbs based on your personal preference. You can use dried herbs like thyme or rosemary, or spices like cumin or chili powder.
Instructions
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In a bowl, combine olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
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Place the chicken drumsticks in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish, ensuring that they are in a single layer.
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Pour the marinade over the chicken drumsticks, making sure to coat each piece thoroughly. Massage the marinade into the meat gently.
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If using additional seasonings or herbs, sprinkle them over the drumsticks and press them into the meat for better flavor infusion.
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Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful the chicken will be.
Grilling
Grilling chicken drumsticks brings out their natural flavors and adds a delightful smoky char to the meat. Here are two methods you can use:
Preparing the grill
Before you start grilling, it’s important to prepare your grill properly.
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Clean the grill grates thoroughly with a wire brush to remove any residue from previous use.
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit (175-200 degrees Celsius).
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Oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken drumsticks from sticking.
Direct grilling method
The direct grilling method involves cooking the drumsticks directly over the heat source. This method is ideal for smaller cuts of meat and provides a quick and intense sear.
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Remove the chicken drumsticks from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off.
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Place the drumsticks on the preheated grill directly over the heat source. Make sure they’re not overcrowded to allow for even cooking.
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Cook the drumsticks for about 4-5 minutes per side, rotating occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
Indirect grilling method
The indirect grilling method is perfect for larger cuts of meat, like chicken drumsticks, as it allows for slower and more even cooking. This method is great for achieving juicy and tender results.
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Remove the chicken drumsticks from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off.
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Set up your grill for indirect grilling by placing the drumsticks on the side of the grill opposite the heat source. If using charcoal, arrange the charcoal on one side and place a drip pan on the other side.
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Close the grill lid and cook the drumsticks for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). Flip them halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.
Basting the chicken drumsticks
To further enhance the flavor and moisture of your grilled chicken drumsticks, consider basting them with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
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Brush BBQ sauce onto one side of the drumsticks using a basting brush.
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Close the grill lid and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
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Flip the drumsticks, brush the other side with BBQ sauce, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Serving
Once your grilled chicken drumsticks are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve them up!
Optional: BBQ sauce for dipping
If you’re a BBQ sauce enthusiast, serve extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. This allows everyone to customize the level of sauciness to their liking.
Garnishes
To add a burst of freshness and color to your grilled chicken drumsticks, consider garnishing them with some chopped cilantro, parsley, or green onions.
Side dishes
Grilled chicken drumsticks pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Grilled vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob make tasty and healthy sides.
- Coleslaw: A creamy and tangy coleslaw complements the smoky flavors of the chicken.
- Baked beans: The sweetness and richness of baked beans contrast beautifully with the savory drumsticks.
- Potato salad: A classic and satisfying side that adds a comforting element to any BBQ meal.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to explore when preparing and grilling your chicken drumsticks:
Brining the chicken drumsticks
For even more succulent and flavorful chicken drumsticks, consider brining them. Brining involves soaking the meat in a saltwater solution before cooking. This process helps lock in moisture and enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
Using different BBQ sauces
Experiment with different BBQ sauces to cater to everyone’s tastes. From tangy and sweet to smoky and spicy, there’s a wide range of BBQ sauce flavors available. Try a variety and find your family’s favorite.
Adding a spicy kick
If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can spice up your grilled chicken drumsticks by adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of spiciness.
Using wood chips for smoky flavor
To elevate the smoky flavor of your grilled chicken drumsticks, consider adding soaked wood chips to your charcoal grill. Different types of wood (such as hickory, mesquite, or applewood) impart distinct flavors to the meat.
Choosing the right side dishes
When selecting side dishes to accompany your grilled chicken drumsticks, aim for a balance of flavors. Consider contrasting textures, such as pairing the juicy drumsticks with crispy grilled vegetables or creamy potato salad.
FAQs
Can I use other chicken cuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe specifically focuses on chicken drumsticks, you can easily adapt it to other chicken cuts like thighs or even chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for different cuts.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken drumsticks for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. The longer marination time allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful end result.
Can I bake the drumsticks instead of grilling?
While grilling provides that classic smoky flavor, you can absolutely bake the drumsticks if you don’t have access to a grill. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) and bake the drumsticks for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
Can I use a gas grill instead of charcoal?
Yes, you can use a gas grill instead of charcoal. Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat, follow the same indirect or direct grilling methods mentioned above, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
How can I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
To prevent the chicken drumsticks from sticking to the grill, make sure to oil the grill grates before cooking. Additionally, allow the drumsticks to cook for a few minutes on each side before attempting to flip them. This helps develop a caramelized crust, making them easier to release from the grill.