Description

These Grilled BBQ Chicken Drumsticks offer an irresistible smoky flavor with a simple prep. Perfect for summer cookouts or a quick family dinner, this dish features juicy chicken legs coated in a delicious BBQ sauce and jam mixture. Enjoy a taste of summer with this easy, homemade recipe that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

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1 tablespoon light brown sugar, packed
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
1 ½ teaspoons onion powder
1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
chili powder or cayenne pepper, optional and to taste for spiciness
4 pounds chicken legs, if using frozen, make sure you allow ample time to fully thaw
1 cup BBQ sauce
¼ cup apricot jam, apple or grape jelly work well, orange marmalade is a less sweet option

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Instructions

In a small bowl, combine all the seasonings and spices for the dry rub and mix well.
Place the chicken on a large plate, pat it dry with paper towels, and rub the dry rub evenly into the drumsticks. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours or overnight. Remove from the fridge 30 minutes before grilling.
In a small saucepan, combine BBQ sauce and jam. Heat over medium-low until simmering, whisk occasionally until thickened, about 10 minutes. Set aside.
Preheat the grill with one side on high heat and the other on medium. Lightly oil the grill grates.
Place the chicken on the medium heat side, close the lid, and grill for 5 minutes. Flip the drumsticks and adjust their position based on heat, cooking for another 5 minutes.
When the chicken is about 80% done, generously baste with BBQ sauce mixture and cook for 2 minutes with the lid closed. Flip, baste the other side, close lid, and cook for another 2 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Optionally garnish with herbs, green onions, or sesame seeds.

Notes

For a spicier kick, feel free to add more chili or cayenne pepper to the dry rub.
Ensure the chicken is fully thawed before marinating for best flavor absorption.
Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling helps keep it juicy.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 drumstick
Calories: 246
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 21g
Cholesterol: 87mg