Description
This recipe for Grilled Chicken Drumsticks delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with a perfectly charred exterior. Marinated in a blend of spices and grilled to smoky perfection, these drumsticks are an easy and satisfying dish ideal for outdoor barbecues or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Whisk everything together until well blended to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken drumsticks in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the drumsticks, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Drumsticks: Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Place them on the grill and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice char on all sides. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve hot with your favorite sides or dipping sauces.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to maximize flavor and tenderness.
- You can substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a slightly different citrus note.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness to avoid under or overcooking.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the drumsticks in the oven using the broil setting, turning occasionally to mimic the grilling effect.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder if you prefer milder or spicier chicken.
