Here’s a simple and flavorful recipe for Grilled Chicken Drumsticks—crispy outside, juicy inside, and perfect for any barbecue or weeknight dinner.
Ingredients (4–6 drumsticks)
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Optional: ½ tsp cayenne or chili powder for heat
- Optional: fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary) for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat drumsticks dry with paper towels (helps the skin crisp).
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and optional cayenne.
- Rub the mixture all over the drumsticks.
- Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge for more flavor).
2. Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C).
- Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Drumsticks:
- Place drumsticks on the grill and cook 25–30 minutes, turning every 5–7 minutes for even cooking.
- Check for doneness: internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Optional: brush with BBQ sauce or glaze during the last 5 minutes of grilling for extra flavor.
4. Serve:
- Let drumsticks rest 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon if desired.
💡 Tips:
- For extra crispy skin, finish the drumsticks over direct heat for 1–2 minutes per side.
- If using a charcoal grill, move drumsticks between direct and indirect heat to avoid burning.
- Pair with grilled vegetables, coleslaw, or baked potatoes for a full meal.
If you want, I can also give a marinade variation that’s sweet and tangy for a more bold flavor. Do you want that version?
