Description
Deliciously smoky and tender chicken drumsticks, perfect for outdoor gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lb. chicken drumsticks (legs)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Start by preparing the BBQ seasoning spice blend. Measure out the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and cayenne powder (if using) into a small bowl. Gently stir with a spoon until well combined.
- Pat each chicken drumstick dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up beautifully. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle the spice blend generously. Mix well to coat each piece of chicken thoroughly for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F. Place the chicken drumsticks on the cleaned grill grates, ensuring they do not touch. Cook them, turning occasionally, until the skin is browned and crispy on all sides. Lower the heat to medium-low (around 300°F) and close the grill lid. Cook for about 25 minutes, turning once halfway through.
- For charcoal grills, create two heat zones by moving most of the charcoal to one side. Place the chicken directly over the hot coals, turning every few minutes to achieve an even browning. Once crispy, move the chicken to the cooler side of the grill, cover, and cook for about 25 more minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Brush each piece of chicken with barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking to allow the sauce to caramelize. Check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (~74°C) for safe consumption, then serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Allowing the chicken to marinate in the spice blend for a few hours, or overnight, for an even deeper flavor profile is recommended.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drumstick
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg