Introduction
Get ready to transform ordinary chicken drumsticks into a mouthwatering feast with this foolproof BBQ chicken drumsticks recipe. I’ve perfected this method over countless backyard cookouts, and it consistently delivers that perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. What makes these BBQ chicken drumsticks special is their crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior – exactly what you want in great barbecue chicken. Whether you’re hosting a weekend gathering or planning a casual family dinner, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right from your own grill.
Ingredients
- 12 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup BBQ sauce of your choice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
Pro tip: While any BBQ sauce works well, I recommend choosing one that’s not too sweet, as the sugar can burn quickly on the grill. If you’re using a sweet sauce, you’ll want to apply it only in the final stages of cooking.
Instructions
- Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispier skin.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks and rub to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the drumsticks, ensuring even coverage.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F/175°C).
- Place drumsticks on the grill and cook for 25-30 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes.
- Once the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C), start brushing with BBQ sauce.
- Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Give one final brush of BBQ sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes more.
Cook Time and Serving Size
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 6 (2 drumsticks per person)
Recipe Notes
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness – it’s the most reliable method.
- Keep a spray bottle of water handy to control flare-ups on the grill.
- Let the drumsticks rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to retain their juices.
- If cooking in batches, keep finished drumsticks warm in an oven set to 200°F (95°C).
- For extra flavor, marinate the drumsticks in your favorite marinade for 4-8 hours before grilling.
- If you’re cooking indoors, these can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for about 40-45 minutes, turning halfway through.
These BBQ chicken drumsticks are perfect for make-ahead meals too. Simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. Just remember to store them properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients
- 12 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup BBQ sauce of your choice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
Instructions
- Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks and rub to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the drumsticks, ensuring even coverage.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F/175°C).
- Place drumsticks on the grill and cook for 25-30 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes.
- Once the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C), start brushing with BBQ sauce.
- Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Give one final brush of BBQ sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes more.
