How Long Should You BBQ Chicken Drumsticks for Perfectly Cooked Results?

Chicken drumsticks are a summer grilling staple. Their rich flavor and juicy tenderness when cooked on the barbecue make them a backyard favorite. But knowing exactly how long to grill chicken drumsticks can be tricky. Undercook them and you risk food poisoning. Overdo it and you’ll end up with dry, leathery meat. So what’s the ideal grilling time for perfect, mouthwatering drumsticks every time?

Factors That Affect Chicken Drumstick Grilling Times

There are a few key factors that impact how long you need to barbecue chicken drumsticks:

• Size of the drumsticks – Larger drumsticks will naturally take longer to cook than smaller ones.

• Bone-in vs boneless – Bone-in drumsticks cook slower than boneless since the bone acts as an insulator

• Thickness of marinade – Heavy, sugary marinades effectively insulate the meat, increasing grill time.

• Grill temperature – Higher heat cooks drumsticks faster than lower temperatures

• Flipping frequency – Frequent flipping helps them cook evenly versus letting them sit.

• Altitude – Higher altitudes increase cooking time due to lower atmospheric pressure.

Taking these elements into account allows you to adjust your grilling times accordingly for perfect results.

Proper Chicken Drumstick Grilling Times

For ideal doneness, drumsticks should grill for 25-30 minutes at medium heat (350°F – 375°F), flipping them every 5-7 minutes. The ultimate test is measuring temperature – they’re safe to eat once the thickest part of the meat reaches 165°F.

If using a charcoal grill, create two heat zones – one hot for searing and one cooler for thorough cooking without burning. Start drumsticks over direct heat to brown the skin. Then move to indirect heat, flipping occasionally, until fully cooked.

For gas grills, preheat to medium. Place drumsticks on the grates and cook with the lid closed, flipping every 5-7 minutes. Keep the temperature between 350°F – 375°F for even cooking.

Preparing Chicken Drumsticks for Grilling

Proper prep is key for delicious grilled chicken drumsticks:

• Marinate for added flavor and tenderness. Buttermilk, citrus, herb marinades all work well.

• Season with a dry rub, herbs, spices, salt and pepper. Get creative!

• Poke holes to allow steam to escape and prevent puffing up on the grill.

• Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels for crispy skin.

• Brush with oil to help browning and prevent sticking.

Grilling Techniques for Perfect Chicken Drumsticks

Once they hit the grill, use these techniques:

• Grill skin-side down first for maximum browning and crispiness.

• Flip frequently, every 5-7 minutes, for even cooking.

• Move drumsticks to indirect heat on a charcoal grill once browned to avoid burning.

• Brush with sauce during last 10 minutes only to prevent burning or use as a dip.

• Check temperature in thickest part with a meat thermometer for doneness.

• Let rest for 5+ minutes before serving for juicier meat.

How to Tell When Chicken Drumsticks Are Done Grilling

The best way to test doneness is using a thermometer, but you can also check for visual cues:

• Thermometer reaches 165°F in thickest section

• Skin is crispy and browned

• Meat shrinks back from the ends of bones

• Juices run clear when pierced with a fork

Once drumsticks hit 165°, get them off the grill immediately to prevent overcooking. Let rest briefly before enjoying your perfectly barbecued chicken!

Helpful Tips for Grilling Juicy Chicken Drumsticks

• Don’t grill frozen drumsticks – always thaw completely first.

• Use indirect heat on one side of charcoal grill to prevent burning.

• Clean grill grates before and after for ideal browning.

• Brush grates with oil to minimize sticking.

• Avoid sugary sauces that can burn quickly – use as a dip instead.

• Soak wood chips before adding for smoky flavor.

• Adjust time for size – larger pieces need longer grilling time.

• Don’t poke/prod meat while cooking – leads to dryness.

• Let rest before cutting so juices redistribute.

Delicious Ways to Serve Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

These barbecue-charred drumsticks pair well with:

• Summer salads – potato, pasta, coleslaw

• Grilled veggies – zucchini, corn, peppers, eggplant

• Easy sides – baked beans, mac & cheese, cornbread

• Fresh salsas, chutneys, relishes, pickles

Get creative with global flavors! Thai peanut sauce, chimichurri, and tzatziki are all excellent drumstick toppers.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Save extra grilled drumsticks in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot and sizzling again. They also reheat well on the grill or in the air fryer. Just bring them back up to 165°F for food safety.

Chicken drumsticks are the perfect protein for easy summer grilling and barbecues. Follow these simple tips on prep, cooking time, temperature, and technique for finger-lickin’ juicy, flavorful results every time. Get that grill fired up – it’s drumstick season!