Any One Can Put The Heat To The Meat But Only A Few Can Barbeque

How to Barbecue Chicken Drumsticks on a Gas Grill

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Barbecuing chicken drumsticks on a gas grill is one of the best ways to achieve tender, juicy, and flavorful meat with a slightly crispy, charred exterior. Drumsticks are an affordable and forgiving cut, making them perfect for grilling enthusiasts of all skill levels. Gas grilling, in particular, offers convenience and precise temperature control, ensuring perfectly cooked chicken without much hassle. In this guide, we will walk you through the entire process, from selecting ingredients and preparing your grill to achieving that irresistible smoky, caramelized finish.

Ingredients and Equipment

Before firing up the grill, gather all the necessary ingredients and tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients:

  • 8–10 chicken drumsticks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for spice)
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (optional, for glazing)

Equipment:

  • Gas grill
  • Grill brush (for cleaning grates)
  • Tongs (for flipping drumsticks)
  • Meat thermometer (to check internal temperature)
  • Basting brush (for applying barbecue sauce)
  • Aluminum foil or a drip pan (optional, to prevent flare-ups)
Barbecue Chicken Drumsticks
Barbecue Chicken Drumsticks

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation ensures that your chicken turns out flavorful and fully cooked.

1. Prepping the Drumsticks

  1. Pat Dry the Chicken – Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the drumsticks. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents sticking to the grill grates.
  2. Coat with Olive Oil – Lightly drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks and rub them to coat evenly. This step helps the seasonings adhere and prevents the chicken from drying out.
  3. Season Generously – In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder (if using), and thyme. Sprinkle the seasoning blend over the drumsticks, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  4. Marinate (Optional) – If you have extra time, let the seasoned drumsticks rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours. This enhances flavor absorption.

2. Preheating the Gas Grill

  1. Turn on the Grill – Set your gas grill to medium heat (approximately 350–400°F). Allow it to preheat for about 10–15 minutes.
  2. Oil the Grates – Dip a folded paper towel in a bit of oil, then use tongs to rub it over the grill grates. This helps prevent the drumsticks from sticking.
  3. Set Up Indirect and Direct Heat Zones – Keep one side of the grill on medium-high heat and another side on low or off. This setup allows you to start cooking the chicken on indirect heat before finishing on direct heat for a crispy char.

Grilling Process

Cooking drumsticks on a gas grill involves two main steps: slow cooking over indirect heat and finishing over direct heat.

1. Initial Cooking Over Indirect Heat

  1. Place Drumsticks on the Cooler Side – Arrange the drumsticks on the side of the grill with lower heat, leaving space between each piece.
  2. Close the Lid – Let them cook for about 25–30 minutes, turning every 5–7 minutes to ensure even cooking.
  3. Monitor Temperature – Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. When the drumsticks reach about 150°F, they are ready for searing.

2. Searing on Direct Heat

  1. Move Drumsticks to the Hot Side – Transfer the drumsticks to the direct heat zone.
  2. Turn Frequently – Rotate every 1–2 minutes to prevent burning and achieve an evenly crispy exterior.
  3. Check for Doneness – Use a meat thermometer to confirm that the internal temperature reaches at least 175°F. For the juiciest results, aim for 180–185°F.

Adding BBQ Sauce (Optional)

If you enjoy caramelized barbecue sauce on your chicken, follow these steps:

  1. Apply Sauce in the Last 5–10 Minutes – Brush a thin layer of barbecue sauce on the drumsticks while they are still on the grill.
  2. Turn and Repeat – After 2–3 minutes, flip the drumsticks and apply another layer of sauce.
  3. Allow Caramelization – Let the sauce bubble and slightly char, but avoid excessive burning.

Resting and Serving

1. Let the Chicken Rest

  • Transfer the drumsticks to a clean plate and tent loosely with foil.
  • Allow them to rest for about 5 minutes. This step helps redistribute the juices and enhances tenderness.

2. Serve with Complementary Sides

Pair your grilled chicken drumsticks with delicious sides, such as:

  • Grilled vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, corn on the cob)
  • Coleslaw or potato salad
  • Mac and cheese
  • Garlic bread or cornbread

Tips and Troubleshooting

To ensure a smooth grilling experience, keep these tips in mind:

Prevent Sticking

  • Always preheat the grill and oil the grates before cooking.
  • Avoid flipping the chicken too early; let it naturally release from the grates.

Adjusting Heat Zones

  • If flare-ups occur, move the drumsticks to the indirect heat zone until they subside.
  • Adjust the heat as needed to prevent excessive charring.

Alternative Seasonings and Marinades

  • Lemon Herb: Lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
  • Spicy Cajun: Cayenne, smoked paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  • Honey Mustard Glaze: Honey, Dijon mustard, and a dash of vinegar.

Conclusion

Grilling chicken drumsticks on a gas grill is an easy and rewarding process that results in flavorful, crispy, and juicy chicken. By following the steps outlined above—from preparation and seasoning to cooking and resting—you’ll be able to create a delicious meal every time. Whether you prefer them simply seasoned or glazed with barbecue sauce, these drumsticks are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any cookout or family dinner. Fire up the grill and enjoy.