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Flavorful Grilled BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Recipe with Tangy Sauce

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A quick and easy grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks recipe featuring a tangy sauce that balances smokiness with a gentle kick, perfect for summer cookouts and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken drumsticks, skin-on
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (smoky variety like Stubb’s recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder (if using), salt, black pepper, and olive oil until smooth and glossy.
  2. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up.
  3. Toss the drumsticks in the marinade, coating thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours.
  4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F / 190°C). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  5. Place the drumsticks on the grill, spacing evenly. Grill for about 20 minutes total, turning every 5 minutes.
  6. Brush extra marinade or BBQ sauce on the drumsticks as you turn them to build a sticky glaze. Watch for flare-ups and move drumsticks to cooler parts of the grill if needed.
  7. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Juices should run clear and skin should be nicely charred but not burnt.
  8. Transfer drumsticks to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired and serve hot.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating for crispier skin. Brush sauce gradually during grilling to avoid burning. Rest chicken after grilling to keep it juicy. For oven alternative, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 35-40 minutes, brushing with sauce halfway through. Use gluten-free BBQ sauce for gluten-free diet. Avoid microwaving leftovers to keep skin crispy.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, BBQ chicken drumsticks, summer recipe, tangy sauce, easy BBQ, outdoor grilling, smoky chicken

Find it online: https://evabake.com/flavorful-grilled-bbq-chicken-drumsticks-recipe-with-tangy-sauce-easy-perfect-for-summer/