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BBQ chicken legs on a plate with veggies and lemon wedges.

Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

5 from 2 votes
Created by Mariam Ezzeddine
Made with a simple marinade, these Grilled chicken drumsticks are the go-to choice for parties and gatherings, plus the recipe is simple and affordable.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 Servings
Servings

Ingredients

  • 10-12 chicken drumsticks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

  • Pat dry the chicken legs with a kitchen towel. Set it aside.
  • In a small bowl, combine the ingredients for the spice rub: paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper and cayenne pepper.
  • Massage the chicken with oil, ensuring it is well coated, and then sprinkle the spice rub generously over the chicken legs. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium heat.
  • Add the marinated chicken to the grill pan or grill and cook for approximately 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks.
  • Transfer the grilled chicken legs to a plate and garnish with chopped parsley for added freshness.

Notes

  • Marinate: To enhance the taste and tenderness, marinate the chicken drumsticks in the spice mixture for at least 30 minutes but up to overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
  • Pat Dry Before Marinating: To ensure a crispy exterior, pat the chicken legs dry before marinating. This prevents excess moisture from interfering with the desired texture.
  • Let Them Rest: Allow the cooked chicken legs to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Don't be afraid to get creative with your marinades and seasonings. Try different herbs, spices, and sauces and even add lemon or lime juice to discover your favorite combinations. If you prefer a spicier or milder taste, feel free to adjust the quantity of cayenne pepper or other spices in the marinade.
  • Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary based on your oven or grill. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and prevent overcooking.
  • Right Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the chicken legs on it. To ensure the chicken legs are cooked through and safe to eat, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F.
  • Sauces: Pair with your favorite dips, such as barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, tzatziki, or a tangy chimichurri, for guests to personalize their flavors

Nutrition

Calories: 759kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 53g | Fat: 58g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 12g | Monounsaturated Fat: 26g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 300mg | Sodium: 563mg | Potassium: 691mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 604IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 42mg | Iron: 3mg
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