Description
Smoked Chicken Drumsticks: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Ingredients
Scale
- 10 chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Wood chips for smoking (e.g., hickory or applewood)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken drumsticks in a large zip-top bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for maximum flavor).
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 250°F (120°C). If using a charcoal grill, prepare it for indirect cooking.
- Add Wood Chips: Soak wood chips in water for about 30 minutes, then drain. Place them in the smoker box or directly on the coals if using a charcoal grill.
- Place the Drumsticks: Remove the drumsticks from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place them on the smoker grates, leaving space between each piece.
- Smoke the Chicken: Close the smoker lid and smoke the chicken for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the drumstick without touching the bone.
- Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the smoker and let them rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for a more flavorful bite.
- Enjoy your smoked chicken drumsticks as they are or with your favorite barbecue sauce.
Notes
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drumstick
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
