Name: Grilled Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6-8 chicken legs (drumsticks); 2 T olive oil; 1 – 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 3/4 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp ground mustard; 1/4 tsp cayenne; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper

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If there’s one dish that can win over a crowd at any cookout, it’s Grilled Chicken Drumsticks. With their irresistibly crispy skin, smoky flavor, and punchy spice rub, these drumsticks are a summer staple I make again and again. What I love most is how easy they are to throw together, yet they pack a ton of flavor and a mouthwatering aroma that brings people running to the table. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or simply craving something finger-licking good on a weeknight, you’ll find these Grilled Chicken Drumsticks hit all the right notes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Grilled Chicken Drumsticks Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple and uses everyday ingredients, but each one truly matters—bringing savory depth, a burst of color, or a little hit of heat to the finished drumsticks. These aren’t just basics; these are the foundation for standout Grilled Chicken Drumsticks every single time.

Chicken drumsticks: The star of the show—meaty, juicy, and perfect for grabbing straight off the grill.
Olive oil: Helps the spice rub adhere and works magic on the skin for crispiness and golden color.
Garlic powder: Adds bold, aromatic depth; use extra if you love that garlicky punch!
Onion powder: Rounds out the flavor and adds subtle sweetness to balance the spices.
Smoked paprika: Delivers gorgeous color and smoky undertones, making the drumsticks truly “grilled.”
Ground mustard: A tangy, slightly sharp addition that brightens the spice blend.
Cayenne pepper: Brings an adjustable kick—just the right excitement for your tastebuds.
Salt: Essential for drawing out all the flavors and giving the drumsticks savory satisfaction.
Black pepper: For warmth, complexity, and a subtle bite in every mouthful.

How to Make Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Grill

Before you do anything else, get your grill heating up. You’ll want medium-high heat, around 400°F to 450°F, for the perfect sear and juicy finish. While the grill comes up to temperature, you can get everything else set up—trust me, the anticipation makes that final bite even more satisfying.

Step 2: Dry and Oil the Drumsticks

Patting the chicken drumsticks dry isn’t just a fussy extra step—it makes all the difference in getting that gorgeous crisp skin. Once dry, brush each drumstick with olive oil. This not only helps the skin become golden and crisp, but also keeps your drumsticks from sticking to the grill later on.

Step 3: Mix and Apply the Spice Rub

Grab a small bowl and mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, ground mustard, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Now here’s the magic step: don’t just sprinkle it on top! Gently work the spice blend all over the drumsticks, including under the skin if you can. This ensures the flavors infuse right into the meat, so every bite is seasoned and delicious.

Step 4: Clean, Oil, and Arrange on the Grill

Once your grill is preheated, clean the grates and oil them well—no one wants drumsticks glued to the grill! Arrange the drumsticks so they have room to cook evenly. You’ll hear that fantastic sizzle as they hit the grates, and the aroma will hint at the treat to come.

Step 5: Grill and Flip

Cook the Grilled Chicken Drumsticks for about 25 minutes in total, flipping every five minutes. This helps them cook evenly and develop beautifully crispy skin all the way around. Don’t rush—let that spice crust form, and check with a meat thermometer. For ultimate tenderness, aim for an internal temperature of 185°F.

Step 6: Let Them Rest

The final step is simple but crucial—let the drumsticks rest for about five minutes after removing them from the grill. This helps the juices redistribute, giving you perfectly moist, flavorful Grilled Chicken Drumsticks every time.

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, or even thinly sliced green onion over your drumsticks right before serving. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a pop of brightness that takes the smoky spiced chicken to the next level.

Side Dishes

Grilled Chicken Drumsticks shine alongside classic summer sides—think grilled corn on the cob, creamy coleslaw, tangy potato salad, or even a simple tossed green salad. They’re fantastic with just about anything, so go with your favorites or whatever’s fresh and in season.

Creative Ways to Present

Set up a “drumstick bar” where everyone can grab a Grilled Chicken Drumstick and personalize it with their choice of dipping sauces, salsas, or pickles. Or pile the drumsticks high on a platter, garnished with herbs and citrus wedges, for an eye-catching centerpiece at any get-together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Grilled Chicken Drumsticks keep beautifully if you wrap them tightly in foil and store them in the fridge. They stay fresh for up to four days, making them a superb option for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.

Freezing

If you have extra drumsticks you can’t eat right away, let them cool completely, wrap in foil or freezer bags, and freeze. They’ll keep for up to three months. When you crave that grilled flavor, just thaw and reheat—your future self will thank you.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat your chicken drumsticks in a 350°F oven, uncovered, until warmed through and the skin crisps up again—usually about 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat gently on the stovetop if you’re in a hurry, but the oven helps keep that signature crispy skin.

FAQs

Can I make Grilled Chicken Drumsticks without a grill?

Definitely! If you don’t have access to a grill, bake the drumsticks on a wire rack in a hot oven (about 425°F) so air circulates, or use a grill pan on the stovetop. You’ll still get a great crust and deep flavor with the spice rub.

How do I keep the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Properly oiling the grill grates is key. Use a paper towel dipped in oil (hold it with tongs) and rub it over the hot grill grates just before adding the chicken. Also, make sure you don’t try to flip the drumsticks too soon—let them naturally release when the crust forms.

What internal temperature is best for drumsticks?

While chicken is safe to eat at 165°F, for Grilled Chicken Drumsticks I recommend cooking to 185°F. This higher temperature makes the meat extra tender and keeps it juicy—not dry or stringy.

Can I prepare the drumsticks ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can season and marinate the chicken with the spice rub up to 24 hours in advance. Just refrigerate, then take the drumsticks out about 30 minutes before grilling so they come to room temperature for even cooking.

Is it okay to use other cuts of chicken?

You can use the same spice rub and method for chicken thighs or wings, but be aware that cooking times may vary. Drumsticks are especially fun and kid-friendly, but this recipe is delicious on all sorts of chicken cuts.

Final Thoughts

I can’t tell you how many times these Grilled Chicken Drumsticks have saved dinnertime for me—quick, flavorful, and truly crowd-pleasing. If you’re looking for a dish that feels both effortless and special, give these a go. I promise your grill (and your guests) will thank you.