Juicy Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Sizzling summer barbecues demand the perfect grilled chicken drumsticks recipe that guarantees juicy, flavor-packed meat with a crispy exterior.

Tender drumsticks marinated in a blend of zesty spices promise an explosion of taste in every bite.

Backyard cookouts reach new heights when you master this simple yet delectable chicken preparation technique.

The right marinade and grilling method can turn ordinary drumsticks into a mouthwatering feast that leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Seasoned with a carefully crafted mix of herbs and spices, these drumsticks deliver a punch of flavor that elevates your outdoor cooking game.

Fire up the grill and get ready to impress with a dish that’s sure to become a summer staple.

Deliciousness awaits with this foolproof recipe that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes (if marinating for 4 hours

Calories: 320 kcal

Servings: 11

Ingredients for Tasty Chicken Drumsticks

• Garlic Cloves: Provides intense, pungent base that infuses deep aromatic notes into the chicken.
• Harissa Paste: Tunisian chili pepper sauce that adds smoky, spicy kick with complex heat.
• Ground Nutmeg: Warm, slightly sweet spice that brings subtle earthy undertones to the marinade.
• Sumac: Tangy Middle Eastern spice with bright, lemony profile that enhances overall brightness.
• Dried Thyme: Herbaceous Mediterranean herb that contributes subtle woodsy and minty essence.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Rich, smooth lubricant that helps distribute flavors and prevent sticking.
• Lime or Lemon Juice: Citrus acid tenderizes meat and adds zesty, refreshing brightness.

• Chicken Drumsticks: Juicy, dark meat cut that stays tender and absorbs marinades beautifully.
• Kosher Salt: Essential seasoning that intensifies natural chicken flavors.
• Black Pepper: Adds gentle heat and complex spiciness to complement other seasonings.

• Red Onion: Sharp, slightly sweet vegetable that provides additional depth and texture when grilled.

Must-Have Tools for Grilled Drumsticks

• Food Processor: Essential for blending marinade ingredients into a smooth, runny mixture.
• Large Bowl: Needed for mixing chicken with marinade and storing during marination.
• Paper Towels: Used to dry chicken drumsticks before seasoning.
• Outdoor Grill: Primary cooking tool for achieving perfect char and flavor on drumsticks.
• Tongs: Helpful for turning chicken safely and evenly during grilling.
• Zip-Top Bag (Optional): Alternative to bowl for marinating chicken.
• Plastic Wrap: Covers bowl during refrigeration if not using zip-top bag.

Your Guide to Grilling Chicken Drumsticks

Flavor Explosion Chicken Drumsticks

• Marinade Magic

Blend zesty ingredients into a vibrant sauce that will make your taste buds dance. This liquid flavor bomb combines spicy and tangy elements to transform ordinary chicken.

• Chicken Prep

Pat the drumsticks dry and lovingly coat them with the marinade. Make sure every nook and cranny gets some love from the sauce.

• Flavor Infusion

Let the chicken soak up all those incredible flavors. Give it time to relax and absorb the delicious essence of the marinade – patience is key to mouthwatering results.

• Grill Master Technique

Fire up the grill to medium heat. Arrange drumsticks carefully, letting them cook slowly and develop a gorgeous golden-brown exterior. Flip occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

• Delicious Destination

Pull those gorgeous drumsticks off the grill when they’re perfectly cooked. The skin should be crispy, the meat juicy. Serve immediately with your favorite sides and watch everyone’s eyes light up.

Tips to Switch Up Grilled Chicken Flavor

• Flavor Boosting Tricks: Experiment with different herb combinations like rosemary or oregano to create unique marinades that transform the basic chicken recipe.
• Spice Level Control: Adjust the harissa paste quantity to dial up or down the heat – less for mild lovers, more for spice enthusiasts who crave bold flavors.
• Marinating Magic: For maximum taste absorption, puncture chicken skin with small fork holes before marinating, allowing deeper flavor penetration throughout the meat.
• Grill Master Technique: Use indirect grilling method by placing chicken on cooler grill zones to prevent burning and ensure even, juicy cooking without charred exteriors.
• Leftover Love: Transform extra grilled drumsticks into delicious chicken salads, wraps, or shred meat for tacos by storing in airtight containers within 3-4 days of cooking.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Drumsticks

• Zesty Mediterranean Platter: Arrange the grilled drumsticks on a large wooden board with warm pita bread, creamy tzatziki, and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for an authentic Mediterranean feast that brings vibrant flavors to the table.
• Sunny Picnic Spread: Pack these drumsticks in a cooler for an outdoor lunch, paired with a crisp cucumber salad, hummus, and some chilled white wine or refreshing lemonade for a perfect summer meal that everyone will love.
• Hearty Family-Style Dinner: Serve the drumsticks alongside roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet potatoes, with a side of herbed couscous or quinoa to create a complete and satisfying meal that brings the whole family together.
• Spicy Appetizer Delight: Cut the drumsticks into bite-sized pieces and serve as an appetizer with a tangy harissa dipping sauce, perfect for parties or game night gatherings that crave bold and exciting flavors.

Smart Storage for Chicken Drumstick Meals

• Smart Storage Solutions
• Refrigerator Refresh: Store leftover drumsticks in airtight containers, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days. Cool the chicken completely before sealing to maintain optimal taste and texture.
• Freezer-Friendly Option: Wrap individual drumsticks tightly in freezer paper or plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. These tasty morsels will stay delicious for up to 3 months when properly sealed.
• Quick Reheat Strategy: Warm refrigerated drumsticks in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Add a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying and restore moisture, ensuring juicy meat every time.
• Meal Prep Magic: Prepare multiple batches of marinated drumsticks on cooking day. Portion into grab-and-go containers for easy lunches or quick weeknight dinners, saving time and reducing daily cooking stress.

Succulent Grilled Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes (if marinating for 4 hours
• Yield: 11 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Brazilian churrasco-style grilled chicken drumsticks deliver robust flavors with smoky char and zesty marinade. Crisp herb-infused meat promises delicious backyard dining that satisfies hunger and delights hungry guests.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 20 chicken drumsticks (about 5 lbs or 2.27 kg)
• 6 tbsps harissa paste
• 15 garlic cloves, chopped
• ¼ cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 2 limes or lemons, juiced
• 1 large red onion, sliced
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 ½ tsps sumac
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• kosher salt, to taste
• black pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Marinade Preparation: Blend harissa paste, garlic, nutmeg, sumac, thyme, citrus juice, and olive oil into a smooth, aromatic liquid using a food processor.
2. Chicken Preparation: Thoroughly dry drumsticks with paper towels, then season lightly with salt and pepper. Massage marinade comprehensively underneath the skin to enhance flavor penetration.
3. Marinating Process: Integrate sliced onions with drumsticks in a sealed container, ensuring complete coating and flavor infusion. Refrigerate for minimum four hours or overnight to develop complex taste profiles.
4. Grill Setup: Remove chicken 30 minutes before cooking to equalize temperature. Preheat outdoor grill to medium heat, creating an even cooking environment.
5. Grilling Technique: Position drumsticks on grill grates, carefully removing excess marinade to prevent potential flame eruptions. Close lid and rotate every eight minutes for uniform heat distribution.
6. Cooking Completion: Grill for 35-40 minutes, ensuring chicken reaches complete internal doneness. Monitor temperature and color to guarantee perfectly cooked meat.
7. Serving Presentation: Discard used marinade and onions to prevent contamination. Plate grilled drumsticks with complementary side dishes, providing ample napkins for an enjoyable dining experience.

Notes

• Maximize Flavor Absorption: Massage marinade thoroughly under chicken skin to ensure deep, rich taste penetration.
• Prevent Contamination: Always discard used marinade and onions to avoid potential bacterial risks.
• Temperature Matters: Let chicken rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking and maintain juiciness.
• Grill Management: Rotate drumsticks every eight minutes and maintain medium heat to achieve perfect exterior char without burning.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 11
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg