Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

These Grilled Chicken Drumsticks are the epitome of simple, flavorful, and juicy grilled chicken. Coated with a blend of spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, and sage, they are packed with smoky flavor and just the right amount of heat. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a grilling session with friends, this recipe delivers tender chicken with a delicious crispy exterior.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Grilled Chicken Drumsticks are easy to prepare, affordable, and packed with flavors that everyone will love. The combination of spices—garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, and sage—creates a well-balanced and smoky profile that brings out the natural juiciness of the chicken. The grill adds a perfect char to the outside while keeping the inside moist and tender. Whether you’re a grilling pro or just starting out, this recipe is sure to be a favorite!

Ingredients

• 8-10 chicken drumsticks

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried sage

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, dried sage, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with a paper towel.

3. Place the chicken in a large ziplock bag and drizzle with olive oil.

4. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken, then massage the spices into the chicken until it’s evenly coated.

5. Preheat the grill to 350°F (175°C) and make sure it is clean. Lightly spray the grates with nonstick cooking spray.

6. Add the chicken drumsticks to the grill and cook for about 25 minutes, flipping every 3-5 minutes to prevent burning.

7. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings

Variations

• Add a Sweet Glaze: Brush the chicken with honey, maple syrup, or your favorite BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling to add a sweet, sticky glaze.

• Spicy Kick: Add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. You can also add hot sauce to the marinade for added heat.

• Herbaceous Flavor: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the spice mix for a fresh herbal touch.

• Citrus Twist: Add some lemon or lime zest to the spice mix, or squeeze fresh citrus juice over the drumsticks just before serving for a burst of freshness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze leftover cooked drumsticks for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short intervals, covered, to avoid drying them out.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs or breasts instead of drumsticks?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs or breasts, but the cooking time will vary. Chicken breasts cook faster, so monitor the internal temperature carefully. Thighs may take a little longer.

2. Can I bake these drumsticks instead of grilling them?

Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 425°F for about 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through. Bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

3. Can I prepare the drumsticks ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken drumsticks with the spice mixture and olive oil a few hours ahead of time or even overnight. This will allow the flavors to really soak in.

4. How can I ensure the chicken doesn’t dry out?

Make sure to keep an eye on the temperature while grilling, flipping the drumsticks often to avoid burning. Using a meat thermometer is key to ensure it’s cooked through without overcooking.

5. Can I cook these drumsticks on a charcoal grill?

Absolutely! You can cook these drumsticks on a charcoal grill. Just make sure to maintain a medium heat and keep the drumsticks moving to prevent flare-ups.

6. Can I use a gas grill for this recipe?

Yes, a gas grill works perfectly for these drumsticks. Just preheat to medium heat and follow the same grilling instructions.

7. Can I add vegetables to the grill with the chicken?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to the grill alongside the drumsticks. Make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

8. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to check is with a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat.

9. Can I use a different oil besides olive oil?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even avocado oil for this recipe. Just be sure to coat the chicken evenly.

10. Can I cook the drumsticks on a grill pan indoors?

Yes, if you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop. Cook on medium heat and flip the chicken often to ensure it cooks evenly.

Conclusion

These Grilled Chicken Drumsticks are a simple yet flavorful recipe that will impress your family and friends. The combination of spices, smoky flavor from the grill, and juicy chicken makes this the ultimate grilling dish. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or just looking for an easy dinner, these drumsticks are sure to be a hit!

Print