Description
Juicy, flavorful grilled chicken drumsticks marinated in garlic, herbs, and spices — perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners. This recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to enjoy tender chicken with a smoky charred finish.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 8 chicken drumsticks
Marinade
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
Optional
- BBQ sauce for brushing
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a fragrant marinade.
- Coat the drumsticks: Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Use your hands or a spoon for even distribution.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer drumsticks into a sealable bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or for deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F) to ensure even cooking and nice grill marks.
- Grill the drumsticks: Place the marinated drumsticks on the grill and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, turning occasionally to prevent burning and to cook evenly on all sides.
- Apply BBQ sauce (optional): In the last few minutes of grilling, brush drumsticks with BBQ sauce to add extra flavor and caramelization.
- Check temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to guarantee the chicken is safely cooked.
- Serve: Remove from grill and let the drumsticks rest a few minutes before serving to retain juices.
Notes
- Ensure internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety.
- Can be baked in an oven at 400°F for approximately 35 minutes if a grill is unavailable.
- Marinating overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Brush with BBQ sauce towards the end to avoid burning the sugars in the sauce.
- Resting the chicken before serving keeps it juicy.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American