Description
Grilled BBQ Drumsticks are juicy, flavorful chicken legs coated in smoky barbecue sauce and grilled to perfection with a delicious char. This easy recipe uses a simple spice rub and your favorite barbecue sauce, making it a perfect choice for summer cookouts, casual gatherings, and hearty family dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken Drumsticks
- 4 to 6 chicken drumsticks
Dry Rub
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for the grill grates)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, can be added to barbecue sauce for tang)
Instructions
- Pat Dry: Use paper towels to pat the chicken drumsticks dry, removing excess moisture to help the seasoning stick and ensure better browning on the grill.
- Prepare Dry Rub: In a bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar to create a flavorful spice blend.
- Season Drumsticks: Rub the seasoning mixture evenly all over the drumsticks, coating them thoroughly for an even flavor throughout.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium temperature, which is ideal for cooking chicken through without burning.
- Oil Grill Grates: Lightly brush olive oil on the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking during cooking.
- Grill Chicken: Place the drumsticks on the grill with the lid closed and cook, turning occasionally to brown all sides evenly. Grill until the meat is nearly cooked through, about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Apply Barbecue Sauce: Brush the drumsticks generously with barbecue sauce on all sides to create a sticky, flavorful glaze.
- Finish Grilling: Continue cooking the drumsticks, turning frequently and brushing with more sauce to build layers of flavor until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the outside is nicely caramelized with a smoky char, approximately 5 to 10 more minutes.
- Rest: Remove the drumsticks from the grill and let them rest briefly for about 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving.
Notes
- For extra heat, use spicy barbecue sauce or add cayenne pepper to the dry rub.
- Try honey barbecue sauce for a sweeter glaze.
- Add lemon zest or smoked chili powder to the seasoning blend for a twist.
- Store leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven, air fryer, or on the grill, brushing with additional sauce if desired.
- Chicken should always reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Boneless chicken can be used but will require shorter cooking time.
- Marinating the drumsticks for several hours adds extra flavor but is optional.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
