BBQ Chicken Drumsticks grilled to perfection with crispy skin and finished in a sticky, caramelized barbecue sauce. This easy BBQ chicken drumstick recipe is perfect for backyard grilling, weeknight dinners, or game-day crowds.
Pat drumsticks completely dry (key for crispy skin).
Toss with olive oil.
Mix dry rub ingredients and coat drumsticks evenly.
Rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes (or refrigerate up to 12 hours).
Heat grill to medium heat (375–400°F / 190–205°C).
Set up two-zone cooking (direct + indirect heat).
Place drumsticks over indirect heat.
Cover grill and cook 25–30 minutes, turning every 5–7 minutes, until internal temp reaches ~165°F.
Move drumsticks over direct heat.
Brush generously with BBQ sauce.
Grill 8–12 minutes, turning frequently, until sauce is sticky and internal temp hits 175–180°F.
Remove from grill and rest 5 minutes.
Brush with extra sauce if desired.
Bake drumsticks at 425°F (220°C) for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway.
Brush with BBQ sauce during last 10 minutes.
Broil 2–3 minutes for char.
Creamy coleslaw
Corn on the cob
Potato salad
Mac & cheese
Baked beans
Grilled vegetables
Beer: Lager, pale ale, or light IPA
Wine: Zinfandel or chilled rosé
Non-alcoholic: Lemonade, sweet tea, or sparkling water
Dark meat loves higher temps—175–180°F = juicy, not dry.
Always sauce near the end to avoid burning sugars.
For extra crisp skin, finish drumsticks skin-side down briefly.
Want heat? Add cayenne to the rub or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce.
Leftovers are great cold, reheated, or chopped into salads.
6 servings