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Close-up of BBQ grilled chicken drumsticks on skewers sizzling over a summer smoker for a 4th of July recipe.

BBQ Grilled Chicken Drumsticks for the 4th of July


  • Total Time: 6 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 drumsticks 1x

Description

These smoky, juicy chicken drumsticks are perfect for your 4th of July cookout, offering a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze with a hint of smoke. Follow simple steps on prep, grilling, and glazing to achieve tender, flavorful drumsticks every time.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 chicken drumsticks (about 3 lb)
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce, divided
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional)
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional)
  • 1/2 cup wood chips (hickory or applewood, optional)

  • Instructions

    1. In a bowl combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.

    2. Place chicken drumsticks in a zip-top bag or bowl and pour half of the dry spice mixture over them. Seal or cover and marinate 4 to 6 hours in the refrigerator.

    3. Soak wood chips in water for 30 minutes if using. Preheat grill to medium-high (about 400°F). Clean and oil grates.

    4. Pat drumsticks dry, thread two to three per skewer if desired, and set over direct heat to sear. Grill 3–4 minutes per side until golden.

    5. Move drumsticks to indirect heat (about 350°F). Close lid and cook 20–25 minutes, turning every 5 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

    6. Brush drumsticks with BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking, closing the lid between coats to set the glaze. Apply 2–3 layers for a caramelized crust.

    7. Remove drumsticks and tent loosely with foil. Rest 5 to 7 minutes to redistribute juices.

    8. Drizzle with honey or vinegar mixture and garnish with fresh herbs if desired before serving.

    • Prep Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
    • Cook Time: 35 minutes
    • Category: main course
    • Method: grilling
    • Cuisine: american

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 drumstick
    • Calories: 280
    • Sugar: 8
    • Sodium: 550
    • Fat: 12
    • Saturated Fat: 3
    • Unsaturated Fat: 7
    • Trans Fat: 0
    • Carbohydrates: 15
    • Fiber: 0
    • Protein: 24
    • Cholesterol: 85

    Keywords: bbq grilled chicken drumsticks, grilled chicken legs, 4th of july recipes, summer bbq, smoky chicken, bbq chicken legs