Description
These easy grilled chicken drumsticks are a delicious and crispy favorite, featuring a flavorful BBQ spice blend and the perfect balance of smoky and tangy BBQ sauce. Ideal for outdoor BBQs or indoor grilling, they are finger-lickin' good and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 lb. chicken drumsticks (legs)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
BBQ Spice Blend
- 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
- Prepare the Spice Blend: Measure out the chili powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) into a small dish. Stir thoroughly with a spoon to combine all the spices evenly.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle the BBQ spice blend evenly. Toss and rub the chicken pieces until they are fully coated with the spices and oil.
- Preheat the Grill: For gas grills, preheat to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F. For charcoal grills, create two heat zones: one medium-high and one medium-low by arranging the coals accordingly.
- Grill the Chicken - Direct Heat: Place the chicken drumsticks directly on clean, well-oiled grates over the medium-high heat zone. Cook, turning every few minutes, until the skin becomes browned and crispy on all sides.
- Grill the Chicken - Indirect Heat: Move the drumsticks to the medium-low heat zone, close the grill lid, and cook for about 25 minutes. Turn the chicken halfway through to ensure even cooking. Continue until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Apply BBQ Sauce: Brush each piece with your choice of BBQ sauce for added flavor and glaze after cooking.
- Check Doneness and Serve: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature is at least 165°F (74°C). Serve the drumsticks hot for best taste and texture.
Notes
- To prepare in advance: Mix the chicken with oil and spices, cover with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 18 hours before cooking.
- Air Fryer Adaptation: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Lightly oil the basket, place spaced drumsticks inside, and cook for 22 minutes total, turning halfway. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (~74°C).
- Oven Adaptation: Preheat oven to 400°F (~204°C). Arrange chicken on parchment or foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes, turning once halfway through. Verify temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
- Ensure drumsticks are fully dried before seasoning for crispier skin.
- Use your preferred BBQ sauce that meets your dietary needs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 4 drumsticks)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
