Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

Grilled Chicken Drumsticks are a classic and delicious dish that can be made on the grill all year round for that delicious smoky flavor that only the grill can impart.

Grilled chicken drumsticks are a tasty and budget-friendly option for any meal. With just a few simple ingredients and some heat from the grill, you can have juicy and flavorful chicken drumsticks in no time.

One of the great things about grilled chicken drumsticks is the endless possibilities for customization. You can switch up the spices or marinades depending on your preferences or what ingredients you have on hand. Additionally, you can pair them with a variety of sides such as easy smoked vegetables, salad, or grilled corn on the cob.

We almost always serve drumsticks at family barbecues because everyone likes them and it’s a good alternative for those who don’t like brisket or tri tip.

Why Chicken Drumsticks Are Great for the Grill

Grilled chicken drumsticks are a popular and tasty option for cooking on the grill for several reasons. For one, they are a relatively inexpensive cut of meat, which makes them a great choice for a large gathering or if you are on a budget.

While some cuts of chicken can dry out on the grill, the fat in chicken drumsticks keeps the meat moist and juicy, even when exposed to the high heat of the grill. This means that you can cook the chicken for longer without worrying about it becoming tough or dry. If you like to cook with chicken legs then you need to try them smoked.

» You might also like this Grilled Teriyaki Chicken and Smoked Chicken Legs.

Ingredients Needed

• Chicken drumsticks – I usually buy these in a large pack, so they are all pretty uniformly shaped. That will ensure they all cook at the same time and some don’t dry out while others take longer to cook.
• Dry Rub: salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground black pepper

» Try this Carolina Gold Sauce on these drumsticks for some extra flavor.

Equipment Needed

• Grill – I use a Weber Genesis E325 for most of my grilling, though I also have a Z Grills Smoker/Grill combo that I sometimes use. You can use whatever grill you have, whether it’s gas or charcoal.
• Propane or Charcoal – Depending on your setup.
• Grill Tools – I swear by this set of sturdy grill tools from Cuisinart that includes everything you need for grilling, like tongs, a flipper, a digital temperature fork, silicone basting brush, and more.
• Meat thermometer – Many smokers have a thermometer built in, but if you don’t have one you’ll want to get an instant-read thermometer like this awesome Thermapen.

---

What Temperature Should Chicken Drumsticks Be Grilled At?

They should be grilled at a temperature of around 400-425°F on the grill. This temperature range allows the chicken to cook thoroughly without burning or drying out.

To achieve this temperature range on a gas grill, preheat the grill on high for 10-15 minutes and then reduce the heat to medium-high before placing the chicken on the grill.

How Long Does It Take to Grill Chicken Drumsticks?

To grill your chicken drumsticks it will take around 40 – 45 minutes. You will need to make sure to flip them occasionally so they cook evenly on all sides.

It’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 175°F when tested at the thickest part of the meat, without touching the bone.

If you don’t test them with a thermometer, it’s very easy to undercook drumsticks. They will end up being slightly pink in the middle or when you poke them with a fork or knife, the juices will run pink.

How to Cook Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

1. Preheat your grill to 400° F.
2. Mix together all of the seasonings and season the drumsticks. You might also like this dry rub recipe for chicken. It is one of our favorites.
3. Place the drumsticks on the grill and cook for 40-45 minutes, flipping them occasionally, until the internal temperature reads 175° F. If you want to baste them with BBQ sauce, you can start doing that when the internal temp reaches 165° F. This will keep the sauce from scorching.
4. Remove the drumsticks from the grill and serve.

Tips for Grilling Chicken Drumsticks

• It’s best not to use a dry rub that contains sugar since they will be under direct heat on the grill and that sugar can easily burn and scorch the outside of your drumsticks.
• Avoid opening the lid too often while grilling, as this can cause the temperature to drop and result in longer cooking times.
• Make sure to preheat your grill to the right temperature before adding the chicken, but don’t let it exceed about 425° F, because the skin will get too crispy and overcooked while the inside is still cooking.
• For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before grilling to remove any excess moisture.

Recipe Notes

If you’re storing the chicken in the fridge, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Store the chicken in the fridge for up to three to four days.

If you’re storing the chicken in the freezer, place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Frozen grilled chicken can last up to three to four months in the freezer.

You can reheat leftover chicken drumsticks in the oven for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave.