Grilled BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Crispy charred skin and juicy tender meat make these grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks my go to recipe when I want an easy meal that feels like summer. Backyard parties and weeknight dinners both get a major upgrade with these finger licking drumsticks that take hardly any effort and are full of smoky barbecue flavor.

I first grilled these on a hot July evening with my dad and we barely had time to sit before everyone devoured them. Now they are my most requested dish for family get togethers.

Ingredients

• Chicken drumsticks: for their flavor and ability to stay juicy on the grill Tip Always check for plump drumsticks with no strong odor
• Barbecue sauce: adds sticky sweet tang You can experiment with smoky or spicy varieties for different vibes
• Olive oil: helps the spice rub stick and keeps the meat moist during grilling Choose extra virgin for the best flavor
• Garlic powder: deepens the savory base Look for a fine powder for even seasoning
• Onion powder: balances the blend and avoids adding moisture
• Paprika: brings smoky color and helps the chicken brown beautifully Use smoked paprika for extra depth if you like
• Salt: highlights all the flavors Sea salt works wonders here
• Black pepper: adds subtle kick and aroma Freshly cracked is best
• Cayenne pepper: brings heat and zing Optional for those who like a spicy edge
• Fresh parsley for garnish: adds a pop of color and freshness Only use flat leaf if possible

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

Pat the chicken drumsticks completely dry with paper towels This is essential for a crispy exterior on the grill

Make the Marinade:

In a large bowl blend olive oil garlic powder onion powder paprika salt black pepper and cayenne pepper if desired Whisk until smooth and uniform

Marinate the Drumsticks:

Toss the chicken drumsticks in the marinade and coat thoroughly Cover and chill in the fridge for at least thirty minutes up to four hours for richer flavor

Heat Up the Grill:

Preheat your outdoor grill to medium high so it registers about three hundred fifty to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit

Prep the Grill Grates:

Take a paper towel dipped in oil and use tongs to rub it over the grill grates to stop the chicken from sticking

Grill the Chicken:

Lay the drumsticks on the hot grill and close the lid Cook for thirty to forty minutes turning every eight minutes or so for even cooking

Glaze with BBQ Sauce:

During the final ten minutes start brushing on thick coats of your chosen barbecue sauce letting it sizzle and caramelize as it cooks

Test for Doneness:

Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a drumstick It should read one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit when the chicken is fully cooked

Rest the Chicken:

Move the finished drumsticks to a platter and loosely cover with foil Let rest for up to ten minutes so the juices settle inside

Serve and Garnish:

Place the drumsticks on a platter sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve while still hot

Pin

Brushing barbecue sauce near the end is my favorite part The kitchen fills up with a sweet smoky aroma and everyone gathers at the grill dancing around for first dibs My son insists these are what summer tastes like

Storage Tips

Leftover drumsticks store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently on the grill or in the oven to bring back their crispy texture If freezing let them cool first then wrap them tightly and freeze for up to two months

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap drumsticks for bone in thighs or wings if you prefer You can also use gluten free barbecue sauce if you need You can skip cayenne pepper for a mild version or swap smoked paprika for regular if that is what you have on hand

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Serving Suggestions

Pair these with crunchy coleslaw grilled corn or baked beans for a picnic feel They also work well with a light green salad for a balanced meal I love to add watermelon slices for a classic barbecue finish

Cultural and Family Traditions

Chicken drumsticks on the grill are a summer staple across America Families gather at parks and backyards often during holidays like Memorial Day or the Fourth of July making these easy crowd pleasers a take anywhere favorite I remember my grandma grilling chicken over charcoal at family reunions sharing stories while the kids chased fireflies

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the chicken moist while grilling?

Marinating the drumsticks before grilling adds moisture and flavor. Grilling over medium-high heat and turning frequently prevents drying out. Allowing the chicken to rest before serving also keeps it juicy.

→ When should I apply the barbecue sauce?

Brush barbecue sauce on during the final 10 minutes of grilling to avoid burning and ensure a caramelized glaze.

→ How do I know the drumsticks are cooked through?

Chicken is cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

You can marinate the drumsticks up to 4 hours in advance. Grill just before serving for the best texture and taste.

→ What sides pair well with grilled chicken drumsticks?

Classic sides like coleslaw, grilled corn, baked beans, or a fresh green salad complement the smoky flavors.

→ Is it necessary to remove the skin before grilling?

Keeping the skin on helps maintain moisture and achieves a crisp texture when grilled properly.