How Long to Grill Chicken Drumsticks: A Complete Guide to Perfectly Grilled Drumsticks

 

Grilling chicken drumsticks is one of the simplest yet most satisfying ways to prepare a flavorful meal. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, cooking for your family, or just craving a hearty dinner, chicken drumsticks are a crowd-pleaser. However, achieving perfectly grilled drumsticks requires a little know-how, especially when it comes to knowing exactly how long to grill chicken drumsticks.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about grilling chicken drumsticks, including the ideal grilling time, tips for ensuring they cook evenly, and how to get that crispy, golden exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender. By the end of this post, you'll know exactly how long to grill chicken drumsticks and how to achieve the perfect results every time.

Let’s get started!

1. Choosing the Right Chicken Drumsticks

Before you even start grilling, it's essential to pick the right chicken drumsticks. The quality of your chicken can make a huge difference in the final flavor and texture. Here’s what you should look for:

Bone-In vs. Boneless

Drumsticks are typically bone-in, which makes them perfect for grilling because the bone helps retain moisture and flavor. Bone-in drumsticks are more flavorful and tender compared to boneless cuts. Bone-in chicken drumsticks take a little longer to cook, but they are definitely worth the extra time.

Skin-On vs. Skinless

Skin-on drumsticks are highly recommended for grilling because the skin crisps up beautifully over the heat, adding flavor and texture. Skinless drumsticks can be grilled too, but they may not have the same rich taste or crispy exterior.

Organic or Conventional Chicken

Opting for organic drumsticks can be a good choice, especially if you're concerned about hormones or antibiotics in the meat. Organic chicken tends to have a richer, more natural flavor compared to conventional chicken, though it can be slightly more expensive.

2. Preparing the Chicken Drumsticks

Proper preparation is key to getting that perfect grill. Here are the steps you should follow to prepare your chicken drumsticks before placing them on the grill:

Seasoning the Chicken Drumsticks

Seasoning is one of the most important parts of grilling chicken drumsticks. There are two main ways to add flavor: using a marinade or a dry rub.

• Marinades: Marinating your chicken drumsticks infuses them with flavor and helps tenderize the meat. A good marinade should include a fat (like olive oil), an acid (like lemon juice or vinegar), and seasonings like garlic, herbs, and spices. You can marinate your drumsticks for anywhere from 30 minutes to overnight, depending on how intense you want the flavor.
  
  

• Dry Rubs: If you prefer a dry seasoning, apply a dry rub to your drumsticks. A simple rub can be made from a combination of spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder. The dry rub will create a flavorful crust on the outside of the drumsticks while the meat stays juicy on the inside.
  
  

Make sure to let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes after seasoning, so the flavors can set in.

Preparing the Grill

Proper grill preparation ensures even cooking and prevents burning. Whether you’re using a gas or charcoal grill, here’s how to set up your grill for chicken drumsticks:

• Gas Grill: Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). It’s a good idea to set up a two-zone system on your grill—one side with direct heat for searing and the other side with indirect heat for slow cooking.
  
  

• Charcoal Grill: Allow your charcoal to burn down until the coals are covered in white ash. Move the coals to one side of the grill, creating a two-zone fire. You’ll sear the drumsticks over the direct heat, then finish cooking them over the indirect heat.
  
  

3. How Long to Grill Chicken Drumsticks

Knowing how long to grill chicken drumsticks is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked, juicy chicken with a crispy exterior. The answer depends on several factors, including the grill temperature, the size of the drumsticks, and how much time you spend searing versus indirect cooking.

Grilling Bone-In Chicken Drumsticks

On average, bone-in chicken drumsticks will take around 35 to 45 minutes to cook on the grill. The key is to start with a good sear and then cook the drumsticks over indirect heat to avoid burning the outside while the inside cooks through. Here’s a step-by-step guide for grilling bone-in drumsticks:

1. Sear the Drumsticks: Place the drumsticks over the direct heat side of the grill. Grill each side for 3-5 minutes until they are golden-brown and crispy. The direct heat will help to form a nice crust on the skin.
   
   

2. Move to Indirect Heat: After searing, move the drumsticks to the indirect heat side of the grill. Close the lid and let the chicken cook for another 25-35 minutes. This will allow the chicken to cook through without overcooking or burning the exterior. The internal temperature of the chicken drumsticks should reach 165°F (74°C).
   
   

3. Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the drumsticks. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding the bone. Once the internal temperature reaches 165°F, your chicken drumsticks are done.
   
   

Grilling Boneless Chicken Drumsticks

If you’re using boneless drumsticks, the cooking time is much shorter. Boneless chicken drumsticks will typically take around 15-20 minutes to grill. Because boneless drumsticks are thinner, they cook much faster than bone-in ones. Here’s how to grill boneless drumsticks:

1. Sear the Drumsticks: Grill the boneless drumsticks over direct heat for 2-3 minutes per side until they have a nice sear and golden-brown color.
   
   

2. Finish Over Indirect Heat: Move the boneless drumsticks to the cooler side of the grill for 10-15 minutes, checking the internal temperature along the way to ensure it reaches 165°F.
   
   

4. Tips for Grilling Perfect Chicken Drumsticks

• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: When grilling, leave enough space between each drumstick to ensure even heat circulation. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
  
  

• Baste During the Last Few Minutes: If you want to add extra flavor to your chicken drumsticks, baste them with barbecue sauce, honey, or your favorite glaze during the last 5-10 minutes of grilling. Be sure to wait until the chicken is almost done cooking to avoid burning the sauce.
  
  

• Let the Drumsticks Rest: After grilling, let the chicken drumsticks rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps the chicken stay tender and moist.
  
  

• Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that your chicken drumsticks are fully cooked. Always check the internal temperature to avoid undercooking.
  
  

5. Serving Your Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

Once your chicken drumsticks are perfectly grilled, it’s time to serve them. Grilled chicken drumsticks are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, grilled corn on the cob, or a fresh salad. For a fun twist, you can serve the drumsticks with a dipping sauce like ranch, blue cheese, or honey mustard.

Conclusion

Grilling chicken drumsticks is an easy, delicious way to prepare a meal that will satisfy everyone at the table. By knowing how long to grill chicken drumsticks and following the steps for proper preparation and grilling, you can achieve perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful drumsticks every time.

Whether you’re grilling for a weeknight dinner or hosting a barbecue, chicken drumsticks are a versatile and tasty option. For more tips, grilling recipes, and helpful cooking advice, be sure to visit Scrappy Geek. Scrappy Geek is your go-to resource for all things cooking and grilling.

Happy grilling, and enjoy your perfectly grilled chicken drumsticks!