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Barbecue Chicken Drumsticks

Succulent Barbecue Chicken Drumsticks for Ultimate Flavor

Enjoy juicy barbecue chicken drumsticks that are brined for flavor and moisture, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Brining Time 2 hours
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 drumsticks
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Brine
  • 8 drumsticks Chicken Drumsticks Feel free to swap for thighs or breasts if preferred.
  • 4 cups Water Works as the base for the brine.
  • 1/2 cup Kosher Salt Enhances flavor; avoid table salt.
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar Can be substituted with honey.
For the Barbecue Sauce
  • 1 cup Ketchup Provides essential sweetness and tang.
  • 1/2 cup Chili Sauce Adds a touch of heat.
  • 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar Balances sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Provides depth and umami flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Molasses Enhances richness of the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Offers a delightful tang.
  • 1 teaspoon Liquid Smoke Imparts a wonderful smoky flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons Ground Spices (Cumin, Paprika, Chili Powder, Coriander, Pepper) Adjust based on taste preferences.
  • 1 pinch Salt Essential for balancing out flavors.

Equipment

  • Bowls
  • Saucepan
  • grill
  • Oven
  • baking sheet

Method
 

Brining and Cooking
  1. In a large bowl, mix together water, kosher salt, and brown sugar until dissolved. Add chicken drumsticks to the brine, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 2 hours.
  2. While brining, whisk together ketchup, chili sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, molasses, Dijon mustard, liquid smoke, and ground spices in a saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 15 minutes.
  3. Preheat gas grill to medium heat (about 350°F) and the oven to 375°F.
  4. After brining, drain and pat the chicken drumsticks dry. Grease grill grates and grill chicken for about 10 minutes, turning halfway.
  5. Transfer grilled drumsticks to a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, then brush with barbecue sauce on both sides. Bake for an additional 30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. Remove from oven and brush with more barbecue sauce. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1drumstickCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgSugar: 5gCalcium: 10mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, brine for 1 hour and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.

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