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Imagine biting into a perfectly grilled chicken drumstick, the flavors dancing on your palate like a summer breeze. If you want to impress your guests at your next cookout, these six BBQ chicken drumstick recipes are sure to elevate your meals. From sweet glazes to spicy seasonings, there's a flavor for everyone. Curious about which recipes will become your new favorites? Let's explore these mouthwatering options together.
Key Takeaways
- Explore diverse flavors with Honey BBQ Glazed Drumsticks for a perfect blend of sweet and savory, ideal for family gatherings.
- Enjoy the heat of Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks, featuring a savory garlic and cheese topping for a delicious twist.
- Try Smoky Chipotle BBQ Drumsticks for a smoky and spicy experience, enhanced with chipotle peppers and adobo sauce.
- Delight in the fresh taste of Lemon Herb Grilled Drumsticks, marinated with zesty lemon and fresh herbs for summer cookouts.
- Experience the unique Sweet and Tangy Mustard BBQ Drumsticks, combining Dijon mustard and honey for a flavorful and memorable dish.
Honey BBQ Glazed Drumsticks
Honey BBQ glazed drumsticks are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them a favorite for backyard barbecues and family dinners alike. The honey adds a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the smoky flavors of BBQ sauce. This dish isn't only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that your guests will keep coming back for seconds.
To make the honey BBQ glazed drumsticks, you'll need a few simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. The marinade works its magic while the chicken cooks, resulting in juicy, flavorful drumsticks that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're grilling outside or baking indoors, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cooking Instructions:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or preparing your grill for medium heat. In a large mixing bowl, combine honey, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl, ensuring they're thoroughly coated with the marinade. For the best flavor, let the drumsticks marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator).
If using an oven, place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for about 35-40 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they're cooked through and have a nice caramelized exterior.
If grilling, cook the drumsticks for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have those delicious grill marks.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the marinade for a tangy twist. You can also experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your favorite combination.
If you want a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade. Always let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. Enjoy your delicious honey BBQ glazed drumsticks!
Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks
Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks are a mouthwatering treat that combines the perfect amount of heat with the savory richness of garlic and cheese. These drumsticks aren't only easy to prepare, but they also make for a fantastic meal for family gatherings or a casual weeknight dinner. The crispy skin, infused with spices and garlic, paired with the deliciously cheesy finish, will leave everyone asking for seconds.
To make this dish, you'll need to marinate the chicken in a blend of spices, garlic, and olive oil, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. Baking or grilling the drumsticks guarantees they become juicy on the inside while developing a crispy exterior. Serve them with a side of your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh salad for a complete meal that's sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 10 chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
To prepare the Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade, making sure they're well coated. Allow the drumsticks to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, a few hours in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
Once marinated, arrange the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy. In the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the drumsticks and return them to the oven until the cheese is melted and golden. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Extra Tips:
For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the marinade or using smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile. If you prefer grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the drumsticks for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juiciness. Enjoy your spicy, cheesy chicken delight!
Teriyaki Pineapple Drumsticks
Teriyaki Pineapple Drumsticks are a delicious twist on traditional BBQ chicken, combining the savory flavors of teriyaki sauce with the sweetness of pineapple. This dish is perfect for summer grilling but can also be made in the oven for year-round enjoyment.
The marinade infuses the chicken with rich, tropical flavors while the grilling or baking creates a delightful caramelized exterior. This recipe is simple to prepare and is guaranteed to impress your family and friends.
Whether you serve it with rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables, Teriyaki Pineapple Drumsticks will elevate your meal with their vibrant taste and appealing presentation. Let's get started on this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. If using fresh pineapple, you can add the pineapple chunks to the marinade for extra flavor, or reserve them for grilling later.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the drumsticks from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Place the drumsticks on the grill and cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
If you reserved the pineapple, place the chunks on the grill for the last 5-7 minutes until they're caramelized. Once cooked, garnish the drumsticks with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Extra Tips:
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the drumsticks overnight. If you're short on time, a minimum of 1 hour will still yield great results.
If grilling isn't an option, you can bake the drumsticks in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 40-45 minutes. Always verify the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Enjoy your Teriyaki Pineapple Drumsticks!
Smoky Chipotle BBQ Drumsticks
Smoky Chipotle BBQ Drumsticks are the perfect blend of heat and flavor, making them a crowd-pleaser at any barbecue or family dinner. The smoky chipotle peppers impart a deep, rich taste that pairs beautifully with the juicy chicken drumsticks. Whether you're cooking on a grill or in the oven, these drumsticks are sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.
To achieve the best results, marinating the chicken in the smoky chipotle BBQ sauce allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, guaranteeing each bite is packed with deliciousness. This recipe isn't only simple to follow but also adaptable, so feel free to adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Let's explore the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
To prepare the Smoky Chipotle BBQ Drumsticks, start by mixing the BBQ sauce, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This spicy mixture will serve as both a marinade and a glaze for the chicken.
Add the drumsticks to the bowl, making sure they're well-coated with the sauce. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
When you're ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, allowing any excess sauce to drip off. Place the drumsticks on the grill, turning them every 5-7 minutes to guarantee even cooking. Grill for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is crispy and caramelized.
Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 425°F for 30-35 minutes, basting with the remaining marinade halfway through. Once done, let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes before serving.
Extra tip: For an added layer of flavor, consider smoking the drumsticks over wood chips for a more intense smoky taste. You can also adjust the amount of chipotle peppers based on your heat preference, or add a little honey to the marinade for a touch of sweetness that balances the spice.
Enjoy your Smoky Chipotle BBQ Drumsticks with your favorite sides!
Lemon Herb Grilled Drumsticks
Lemon Herb Grilled Drumsticks are a delicious and vibrant way to enjoy BBQ chicken. The zesty lemon combined with aromatic herbs elevates the flavor of juicy drumsticks, making them an ideal choice for summer cookouts or casual family dinners. This recipe is simple, requiring minimal prep time, yet it delivers a revitalizing taste that will impress your guests.
Marinating the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a bright and savory flavor. Grilling the drumsticks adds a smoky aroma and crispy skin that perfectly complements the juicy interior. Whether served with a side salad or grilled vegetables, these lemon herb drumsticks are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
To begin, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until well coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the drumsticks on the grill and cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving. For the best results, make sure to marinate your chicken long enough to absorb the flavors. If you're short on time, even a quick 30-minute soak can make a difference.
Additionally, keep an eye on the grill temperature to avoid burning the outside while ensuring the inside is thoroughly cooked. Serve with extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an added touch!
Sweet and Tangy Mustard BBQ Drumsticks
Sweet and Tangy Mustard BBQ Drumsticks are the perfect blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and make your next cookout unforgettable. The combination of sweet honey, tangy mustard, and a hint of spice creates a sauce that perfectly coats the juicy chicken drumsticks, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Whether you're grilling outdoors or baking in the oven, these drumsticks are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is simple yet delicious, making it a great option for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a mouthwatering dish ready in no time.
Serve these drumsticks with your favorite sides, and watch as they disappear from the plate!
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare the Sweet and Tangy Mustard BBQ Drumsticks, start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl or zip-top bag and pour the mustard marinade over them, ensuring they're well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for even more flavor.
If grilling, place the drumsticks on the grill and cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If baking, lay the drumsticks on a lined baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Brush with additional marinade during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor. For extra tips, consider letting the drumsticks marinate overnight for a more intense flavor. You can also adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the sauce by adding more honey or mustard to suit your taste.
Pair these drumsticks with coleslaw or corn on the cob for a complete meal that's perfect for summer gatherings or family dinners!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Ensure My Drumsticks Are Fully Cooked?
To guarantee your drumsticks are fully cooked, you've gotta check the internal temperature. Aim for 165°F, and let them rest a few minutes before serving. That'll keep them juicy and safe to eat!
Can I Use Frozen Drumsticks for These Recipes?
Yes, you can use frozen drumsticks for these recipes. Just make certain to thaw them completely first. This guarantees even cooking and helps achieve that delicious, tender texture you're aiming for in your dish.
What Sides Pair Well With BBQ Chicken Drumsticks?
When you think of BBQ chicken drumsticks, don't you just crave something tangy and invigorating? Coleslaw, corn on the cob, and baked beans complement those flavors perfectly, making your meal irresistibly delicious and satisfying. Enjoy!
How Long Should I Marinate the Drumsticks for Optimal Flavor?
For ideal flavor, you should marinate the drumsticks for at least 2 hours, but letting them soak overnight makes a big difference. This allows the marinade to fully penetrate and enhance the taste beautifully.
Can I Bake These Drumsticks Instead of Grilling?
Imagine the aroma of juicy drumsticks filling your kitchen. Yes, you can absolutely bake them! Just preheat your oven, season well, and let them roast until golden brown, ensuring every bite's packed with flavor.
