Grilling chicken drumsticks is a fantastic way to enjoy a summer meal. The smoky flavor from the grill combines perfectly with the sweet and savory BBQ sauce, creating a truly irresistible dish. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring juicy, flavorful drumsticks every time.
Preparing Your Chicken Drumsticks
Before you even think about firing up the grill, proper preparation is key to perfectly grilled chicken.
1. Thawing and Marinating (Optional but Recommended):
- Thawing: If your drumsticks are frozen, ensure they are completely thawed before grilling. This prevents uneven cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or use a quicker method like the cold water bath (changing the water every 30 minutes).
- Marinating: Marinating adds incredible flavor. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper can elevate your drumsticks. For a more intense BBQ flavor, use your favorite BBQ sauce as the marinade for at least 2 hours, or even overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
2. Patting Dry:
Once thawed (and marinated, if applicable), pat the drumsticks completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a nice, crispy skin on the grill. Excess moisture will lead to steaming instead of grilling.
Grilling Your BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Now for the fun part! Here’s how to grill those drumsticks to perfection:
1. Preheating Your Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F). Make sure the grates are clean to prevent sticking.
2. Grilling Time and Technique:
- Initial Grilling: Place the drumsticks skin-side down on the preheated grill. Avoid overcrowding the grill; leave some space between each drumstick for even cooking. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, undisturbed, to get a good sear and crisp the skin.
- Flipping and Continued Grilling: Flip the drumsticks and cook for another 5-7 minutes. Continue to cook, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are fully cooked. This process typically takes around 20-25 minutes total, depending on the size of the drumsticks and your grill's heat.
- Adding BBQ Sauce: During the last 5-10 minutes of cooking, brush the drumsticks generously with your favorite BBQ sauce. This allows the sauce to caramelize and develop a delicious glaze. Be careful not to burn the sauce.
3. Resting:
Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
- Don't overcrowd the grill: This prevents proper heat circulation and leads to uneven cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust grilling time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the drumsticks and the heat of your grill.
- Experiment with different BBQ sauces: Try different brands and flavors to find your favorite.
- Add some flair: For extra flavor, consider adding wood chips to your grill (like hickory or mesquite) for a smoky aroma.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your delicious grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks with your favorite sides. Some popular options include:
- Coleslaw: A classic pairing that adds a refreshing crunch.
- Potato salad: A creamy and satisfying side dish.
- Corn on the cob: A summer BBQ staple.
- Baked beans: Sweet and savory, perfect for soaking up extra BBQ sauce.
Enjoy your perfectly grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks! They're sure to be a hit at your next barbecue.
