Go Back
+ servings
Print

Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

These easy BBQ chicken drumsticks are the perfect summer dinner! Incredibly simple and made with only 4-ingredients! No marinating necessary.
Course Dinner Recipes
Cuisine American
Keyword BBQ, chicken, dinner, drumsticks, easy dinner, grilling, summer
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings 5 servings
Author Jesseca

Ingredients

  • 10 chicken legs drumsticks
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 3-4 tablespoons chicken rub or seasoning
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce optional

Instructions

  • Trim off any loose skin from the drumsticks. Pat each one dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick and ensure crispy skin.
  • Rub the drumsticks lightly with oil, then sprinkle generously with your favorite chicken seasoning or rub.
  • Allow the seasoned drumsticks to rest at room temperature while you heat the grill or smoker. This helps them cook more evenly.

For Gas or Charcoal Grill

  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F). If using charcoal, let the coals burn down until covered in white ash.
  • Place the drumsticks directly on the grill grates. Cook for 18–20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to prevent burning and to get even grill marks.
  • Once the internal temperature reaches 165°F, brush the drumsticks with BBQ sauce. Continue cooking for 5–7 more minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 175°F.
  • Remove from the grill and let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving.

For Smoker

  • Set your smoker to 275°F and let it preheat for about 15 minutes with the lid closed.
  • Place drumsticks directly onto the grates. Cook for 30 minutes, flip, and cook for another 10 minutes.
  • Once the chicken reaches 165°F, brush on BBQ sauce if desired. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 175°F.
  • Let the smoked drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Patting the chicken dry helps give you that nice crispy skin.
  • The best way to not overcook your chicken is to check it with a meat thermometer.
  • Try different sauces and different rubs to give your chicken a twist in flavor.
  • Serve with a side of bbq sauce!