RestaurantsMercilicious CuisineBbq Drumsticks Recipe

Bbq Drumsticks Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

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

1

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.

2

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.

3

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.

4

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.

5

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.

6

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).

7

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.

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