The smell of smoky, succulent chicken wafting through the air is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy drumsticks coated in a sticky, tangy BBQ glaze that dances on your taste buds. Korean BBQ chicken wings This Grilled BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe is not just food; it’s an experience that transports you straight to a summer backyard barbecue, no matter what the season.
Do you remember those lazy summer afternoons spent by the grill, surrounded by friends and family? The laughter, the chatter, and oh, the food! That’s precisely what this recipe embodies—an invitation to create memories while enjoying delicious flavors. Whether it’s a weekend gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, these drumsticks are sure to bring everyone together with their irresistible aroma and flavor.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for busy nights.
- The flavor profile combines sweet and smoky notes with a hint of spice for that perfect bite.
- Their golden-brown color will impress guests at any cookout or dinner party.
- These drumsticks are versatile enough for various sides like coleslaw or corn on the cob.
Ingredients for Grilled BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Chicken Drumsticks: Choose fresh and plump drumsticks for juicy results; about 10 pieces should do for a small gathering.
BBQ Sauce: A store-bought sauce works well, but homemade gives it an extra special touch; pick your favorite flavor.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps achieve that crispy skin while preventing sticking on the grill.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds depth to the flavor; it’s easier than chopping fresh garlic and offers convenience.
Onion Powder: Like garlic powder, onion powder enhances sweetness without overwhelming the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is essential! Adjust as needed based on your taste preferences.
For the Marinade:
Soy Sauce: Provides umami flavor; low-sodium options help control saltiness while marinating.
Brown Sugar: Sweetens your marinade and balances out acidity from the BBQ sauce perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Grilled BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken drumsticks into a large bowl or resealable bag. In another bowl, mix soy sauce with brown sugar until dissolved. Pour this marinade over your chicken. Seal or cover and let it sit in the fridge for at least one hour—longer if you can wait (overnight works wonders!).
Step 2: Preheat Your Grill
While waiting impatiently for those drumsticks to marinate (we know it’s hard!), preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F/190°C). For charcoal grills, ensure coals are ashy before cooking.
Step 3: Prepare Chicken for Grilling
Once marinated, remove chicken from the fridge and pat dry with paper towels. This step helps achieve crispy skin! Drizzle olive oil over each piece and season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Grill Time
Place your seasoned drumsticks on the grill grates. Cook them over indirect heat for about 30-35 minutes. Turn occasionally so they brown evenly—no one likes a burnt wing!
Step 5: Add BBQ Sauce
During the last few minutes of grilling (about five), brush each drumstick generously with your choice of BBQ sauce. Close the lid and let it caramelize slightly—this step makes all the difference!
Step 6: Serve Up
Once they’re beautifully charred and cooked through (internal temp should reach at least 165°F/75°C), transfer them to plates. Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce if desired for that drool-worthy finish.
Now gather around the table with family or friends as you serve these delectable grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks! Enjoy every bite while reminiscing about those summer days gone by—because let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good barbecue?
You Must Know
- This amazing grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken drumsticks for at least an hour to maximize flavor. While they soak up those delicious spices, prepare your grill. Sear the chicken first over high heat, then move them to a cooler section to finish cooking through.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch up the marinade ingredients based on your cravings! Swap honey for brown sugar, add some chili flakes for extra heat, or toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15 minutes, to keep that juicy goodness intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- First, always pat the chicken dry before marinating to help the flavors stick better.
- Second, let your grill get nice and hot before adding the drumsticks for that perfect sear.
- Lastly, use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re cooked safely and evenly.
I remember one summer BBQ where I accidentally cooked my friend’s favorite dish into a charred masterpiece. They laughed so hard that I ended up making it my signature recipe—grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks that no one could resist!
FAQs :
What is the best way to marinate chicken drumsticks for grilling?
To achieve the best flavor in your grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks recipe, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal. Use a mixture of olive oil, vinegar, and your favorite spices. This will infuse the meat with flavor and ensure it remains juicy while grilling. Additionally, consider adding ingredients like garlic or honey for a deeper taste profile.
How long should I grill chicken drumsticks?
For perfectly cooked grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks, cook them over medium heat for about 30 to 40 minutes. Turn them every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Always use a meat thermometer to check doneness, ensuring you get those juicy and tender results.
Can I use a different sauce for my grilled chicken drumsticks?
Absolutely! While this grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks recipe highlights classic BBQ sauce, feel free to experiment with other sauces. Teriyaki, spicy buffalo sauce, or even a citrus marinade can provide unique flavors. Just ensure that the sauce you choose complements the smoky flavor from grilling for an enjoyable meal. For more inspiration, check out this Honey Mustard Chicken recipe.
What sides pair well with grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks?
Grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks are versatile and pair wonderfully with several sides. Consider serving them with coleslaw for crunch or cornbread for a southern touch. Grilled vegetables or a refreshing garden salad can also complement the meal nicely. These options can enhance your dining experience while keeping it simple and delicious.
Conclusion for Grilled BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe :
In summary, mastering the grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks recipe involves using quality ingredients and proper cooking techniques. Marinating your drumsticks enhances flavor, while grilling at medium heat ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy. grilled mahi mahi Pair these deliciously seasoned drumsticks with your favorite sides to create a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy. With this guide, you’re well-equipped to impress family and friends at your next gathering!

Grilled BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 5 (2 drumsticks per serving) 1x
Description
Savor the irresistible taste of grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks, perfectly marinated and glazed with a tangy BBQ sauce. These juicy, tender drumsticks are ideal for summer gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this recipe will have your guests coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 10 chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce and brown sugar until dissolved. Add chicken drumsticks, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight preferred).
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F/190°C).
- Remove drumsticks from the marinade, pat dry with paper towels, drizzle with olive oil, and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place drumsticks on the grill over indirect heat. Cook for 30-35 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown.
- In the last 5 minutes of grilling, generously coat each drumstick with BBQ sauce and close the lid to caramelize.
- Once cooked through (internal temperature of at least 165°F/75°C), serve hot with extra BBQ sauce if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drumstick
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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