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Grilled BBQ Drumsticks Recipe

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3.9 from 77 reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Description

Grilled BBQ Drumsticks are juicy and flavorful chicken legs coated in a smoky, sweet barbecue sauce. They are seasoned with a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and brown sugar, then grilled to achieve beautiful char marks and a sticky, caramelized glaze. This easy-to-prepare recipe is perfect for summer cookouts, family dinners, and casual gatherings, delivering tender, smoky, and delicious chicken every time.

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasonings

  • 8-12 chicken drumsticks
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Additional Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for oiling grill grates)
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, can be blended into BBQ sauce or marinade)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure better seasoning adhesion and crisping during grilling.
  2. Make the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar to create a flavorful dry rub.
  3. Apply the Rub: Evenly rub the seasoning mixture all over the drumsticks, making sure every surface is well coated for maximum flavor.
  4. Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium heat, approximately 350°F-375°F, ensuring it’s ready to cook without burning the chicken.
  5. Oil the Grill Grates: Using olive oil and a brush or paper towel, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
  6. Grill the Drumsticks: Place the drumsticks on the grill and close the lid. Cook them, turning occasionally to achieve even browning, until the chicken is nearly cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
  7. Apply Barbecue Sauce: Brush the drumsticks generously with barbecue sauce, coating them well.
  8. Finish Grilling with Sauce: Continue grilling with the lid closed, turning frequently and brushing with more barbecue sauce to build a sticky, caramelized glaze. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the outside is nicely charred and glazed, about 5-10 minutes.
  9. Rest and Serve: Remove the drumsticks from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute and ensure moistness.

Notes

  • Use spicy barbecue sauce or add cayenne pepper to the rub for extra heat.
  • Honey barbecue sauce adds sweetness and balances smoky flavors.
  • Add lemon zest or smoked chili powder to the seasoning for unique flavor twists.
  • Store cooked drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat using oven, air fryer, or grill, brushing with extra barbecue sauce before serving.
  • You can marinate the drumsticks for several hours before grilling to boost flavor.
  • Boneless chicken can be used but will require less cooking time.
  • Chicken is safe to eat at an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Grilling over moderate heat prevents drying and ensures juicy meat.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://justsosweet.com/grilled-bbq-drumsticks-recipe/