Bbq Drumsticks Recipe
Make Bbq Drumsticks Recipe in just 1h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Proteins
Method
Proteins
Prep the drumsticks
Pat the 8 drumsticks dry with paper towels. Trim any excess skin or fat as desired. Place in a large bowl or a shallow dish.
Season and marinate
In a small bowl, combine 1.5 tsp kosher salt, 0.75 tsp black pepper, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1.5 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp onion powder, 0.5 tsp ground cumin, and 1 tbsp packed brown sugar. Mix into a paste. Rub the spice mixture all over each drumstick so they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours. If short on time, proceed after a 10-minute rest at room temperature.
Preheat and prepare grill or oven
For grill: Preheat to medium heat (about 350–375°F / 175–190°C). Set up two-zone cooking if possible (one direct-heat side and one indirect). For oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top to allow air circulation.
Cook the drumsticks
Grill method: Place drumsticks over indirect heat, cover, and cook 20–25 minutes, turning every 6–8 minutes until internal temperature reads 155–160°F (68–71°C) and skin is tightening. Move drumsticks to direct heat for 1–2 minutes per side to crisp and char lightly if desired. Oven method: Arrange drumsticks on the rack and roast 30–35 minutes, turning once halfway through, until internal temperature is 160–165°F (71–74°C) and juices run clear.
Make the barbecue glaze
While the drumsticks cook, combine 1 cup barbecue sauce, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, and 1 tsp hot sauce (optional) in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat, stirring, until combined and slightly reduced (3–5 minutes). Taste and adjust acidity or sweetness if desired.
Glaze and finish cooking
When drumsticks are within 5–10°F (2–5°C) of target temperature, brush a generous layer of the warm barbecue glaze over each. Continue cooking: on the grill, return to direct heat for 2–4 minutes per side to set the glaze; in the oven, broil on high 2–4 minutes watching closely until glaze is bubbly and slightly caramelized. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Rest and serve
Transfer drumsticks to a clean platter and let rest 5 minutes so juices redistribute. Brush with any reserved glaze. Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.