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BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Best Juicy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe You’ll Crave Every Time

Enjoy these BBQ chicken drumsticks, perfectly grilled with a smoky BBQ glaze that guarantees juicy bites every time.
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Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 4 drumsticks
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Marinade
  • 8 pieces Chicken drumsticks Choose fresh, meaty drumsticks for ultimate juiciness and flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Helps the marinade cling and keeps the meat tender during grilling.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Freshly minced for that punch of savory aroma and depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Adds a subtle smoky note that complements the BBQ essence perfectly.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
For the BBQ Sauce
  • 1 cup Ketchup The classic tangy base that gives the sauce its signature richness.
  • 1/4 cup Apple cider vinegar Brings bright acidity to cut through the sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Brown sugar Creates a sticky glaze with a caramelized finish on the drumsticks.
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce Adds complexity with its umami kick.
  • 1 teaspoon Hot sauce Optional, to spice things up and keep the flavor lively.

Equipment

  • grill
  • mixing bowl
  • Measuring Spoons
  • ziplock bag
  • saucepan

Method
 

How to Make BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
  1. Marinate Drumsticks: In a large bowl or ziplock bag, whisk together olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add drumsticks, toss well, refrigerate at least 2 hours for deep flavor.
  2. Preheat Grill: Clean and oil the grates, then preheat to medium heat (350°F–400°F). This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking for that beautifully charred, crispy skin.
  3. Start Grilling: Arrange drumsticks on the grill, spacing evenly. Cook for about 25 minutes, turning every 5–7 minutes until golden brown with crispy edges and internal temp reaches 160°F.
  4. Simmer Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire, and hot sauce (optional). Simmer on medium heat for 5–7 minutes until thick and glossy.
  5. Baste & Finish: Brush sauce generously over drumsticks, grill for 5 more minutes per side, building a sticky caramelized glaze. Watch for vibrant color and slight char.
  6. Rest & Serve: Transfer drumsticks to a platter, let rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.

Nutrition

Serving: 1drumstickCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 24gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, allow at least 2 hours for marinating and use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F.

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