Juicy Grilled Chicken Drumsticks – Easy Marinade & Perfect Char
Make juicy, flavorful grilled chicken drumsticks with this easy marinade! Perfect for BBQs or weeknight dinners—crispy skin, tender meat, and smoky flavor.
Grilled Chicken Drumsticks Recipe – Crispy, Juicy & Full of Flavor
Nothing says summer like perfectly grilled chicken drumsticks! This easy recipe features a bold marinade, crispy skin, and tender, smoky meat that’s ready for any BBQ, picnic, or weekday meal. You’ll only need a few pantry staples to bring out restaurant-quality flavor at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients with bold flavor
- Crispy skin, juicy meat every time
- Great for grilling beginners and pros
- Perfect for meal prep and parties
Ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- Optional: ¼ tsp cayenne pepper for heat
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl or ziplock bag, mix olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, and spices. Stir or shake to combine. -
Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken drumsticks and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor. -
Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F / 190–200°C). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. -
Grill the Drumsticks:
Place drumsticks on the grill and cook for 25–30 minutes, turning every 5–7 minutes to get an even char and prevent burning. Internal temp should reach 175°F (80°C). -
Rest & Serve:
Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot with sides like grilled corn, coleslaw, or potato salad.
Tips for Grilling Chicken Drumsticks
- Don’t skip the marinade—it locks in flavor and keeps the meat moist.
- Use indirect heat if your grill runs hot—this prevents flare-ups and burning.
- Add a glaze (like BBQ sauce) during the last 5 minutes for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I bake these drumsticks instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I use boneless chicken?
You can, but bone-in drumsticks hold up better on the grill and stay juicier.
How long should I marinate the drumsticks?
At least 1 hour, but up to 24 hours for the best flavor infusion.
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