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
- 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
Instructions
- Marinade Preparation: Blend harissa paste, garlic, nutmeg, sumac, thyme, citrus juice, and olive oil into a smooth, aromatic liquid using a food processor.
- 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.
- 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.
- Grill Setup: Remove chicken 30 minutes before cooking to equalize temperature. Preheat outdoor grill to medium heat, creating an even cooking environment.
- 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.
- Cooking Completion: Grill for 35-40 minutes, ensuring chicken reaches complete internal doneness. Monitor temperature and color to guarantee perfectly cooked meat.
- 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