How to BBQ Chicken Drumsticks: Finger-licking and Flavorful Grilled Meat

How to BBQ Chicken Drumsticks: Finger-licking and Flavorful Grilled Meat

Barbecuing chicken drumsticks is a classic and delicious way to enjoy grilled meat. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it is also a great option for those who love a juicy and flavorful meal. Whether you are hosting a summer party or just want to enjoy a tasty dinner with your family, barbecued chicken drumsticks are a must-try.

Why BBQ Chicken Drumsticks?

Chicken drumsticks are a popular cut of meat for barbecuing because they are inexpensive, easy to handle, and packed with flavor. They are also versatile, allowing you to experiment with different marinades, rubs, and sauces to create your own unique taste. Additionally, drumsticks are perfect for a crowd, as they are easy to cook in large batches and can be served as a main dish or as part of a buffet.

However, getting the perfect BBQ chicken drumsticks can be a challenge for some. Achieving the right balance of tender and crispy meat, while also infusing it with flavor, can take some practice. That’s where this guide comes in. In this article, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to prepare and cook finger-licking and flavorful BBQ chicken drumsticks that will leave your guests begging for more.

So, let’s get started and learn how to BBQ chicken drumsticks like a pro!

Preparation

Before you start grilling your chicken drumsticks, there are a few things you need to do to ensure that they come out finger-licking and flavorful. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare:

Ingredients

The first step in preparing your chicken drumsticks is to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here is a list of the ingredients you will need:

• 10-12 chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of paprika
• 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon of onion powder
• 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

Marinade

Once you have all your ingredients, the next step is to prepare the marinade. Here is how to do it:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to make a spice rub.
2. Place the chicken drumsticks in a large ziplock bag and add the spice rub. Seal the bag and shake it well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. This will allow the flavors to soak into the meat and make it more tender.

Equipment Needed

Before you start grilling, make sure you have all the necessary equipment. Here is what you will need:

• A grill
• Charcoal or gas
• Tongs
• Basting brush
• Meat thermometer

Now that you have all your ingredients, marinade, and equipment ready, you are all set to start grilling your chicken drumsticks. Keep reading to learn how to grill them to perfection.

Grilling Chicken Drumsticks: Finger-licking and Flavorful Grilled Meat

Grilling chicken drumsticks is a great way to enjoy delicious and juicy meat with family and friends. The process of grilling chicken drumsticks is quite simple and requires minimal effort. In this section, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to grill chicken drumsticks to perfection.

Heat the Grill

The first step in grilling chicken drumsticks is to heat the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is around 375-400°F. This temperature is ideal for cooking chicken drumsticks as it ensures that the meat is cooked through without burning the skin.

Place the Drumsticks on the Grill

Once your grill is heated, place the chicken drumsticks on the grill. Make sure to leave enough space between each drumstick to allow for even cooking. You can also use a grill basket or skewers to keep the drumsticks in place and prevent them from rolling around while cooking.

Cook the Drumsticks

Cook the chicken drumsticks for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. To check the temperature, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat.

Flip the Drumsticks

After 10-12 minutes of cooking, flip the chicken drumsticks to ensure that they cook evenly on both sides. Use tongs to turn the drumsticks gently to prevent the skin from sticking to the grill.

Baste and Flavor the Drumsticks

During the last 5-10 minutes of cooking, baste the chicken drumsticks with your favorite barbecue sauce or marinade. This will add flavor and moisture to the meat, and give it a beautiful glaze. You can also sprinkle some herbs or spices over the drumsticks for extra flavor.

Once the chicken drumsticks are fully cooked and flavored, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the meat more tender and juicy.

Grilling chicken drumsticks is an easy and delicious way to enjoy finger-licking and flavorful grilled meat. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have perfectly cooked and juicy chicken drumsticks that everyone will love.

Serving

Once the chicken drumsticks are cooked to perfection, it is crucial to let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.

While the drumsticks are resting, you can prepare some delicious sides to serve alongside them. Some classic options include:

Coleslaw

A fresh and crunchy coleslaw is the perfect accompaniment to BBQ chicken drumsticks. You can make your own coleslaw by shredding cabbage, carrots, and other vegetables, and mixing them with a creamy dressing. Alternatively, you can buy pre-made coleslaw from the grocery store.

Potato Salad

Another classic BBQ side dish is potato salad. This creamy and tangy dish is made by boiling potatoes, chopping them into bite-sized pieces, and mixing them with mayonnaise, mustard, and other seasonings. You can also add hard-boiled eggs, celery, and onions for extra flavor.

Baked Beans

Baked beans are a sweet and savory side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken drumsticks. You can make your own baked beans by simmering navy beans with molasses, brown sugar, and bacon, or you can buy canned baked beans from the grocery store.

Corn on the Cob

A simple and delicious side dish that requires minimal preparation is corn on the cob. You can grill the corn alongside the chicken drumsticks or boil it in a pot of water. Serve it with butter and salt for a classic BBQ flavor.

Once your sides are ready, you can plate up the chicken drumsticks and enjoy a finger-licking and flavorful meal with family and friends.

Conclusion

Grilling BBQ chicken drumsticks is a fun and tasty way to enjoy a summer day. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create finger-licking and flavorful chicken drumsticks that will impress your family and friends.

First, prepare your chicken drumsticks by cleaning them and marinating them in your favorite sauce. Then, preheat your grill and cook the drumsticks for about 25 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. Finally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat moist.

Remember, grilling chicken can be tricky, so be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to avoid the risk of foodborne illness. You can also experiment with different marinades and seasoning blends to find your perfect flavor.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just looking for a tasty dinner option, BBQ chicken drumsticks are a great choice. So fire up the grill, grab some cold drinks, and enjoy your finger-licking and flavorful BBQ chicken drumsticks!

• Prepare your chicken drumsticks by cleaning and marinating them in your favorite sauce.
• Preheat your grill and cook the drumsticks for about 25 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat moist.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.
• Experiment with different marinades and seasoning blends to find your perfect flavor.