Tantalizingly Smoky & Finger-Licking Good Chicken Drumsticks

Having a barbecue is always a great way to spend a summer day. I recently tried my hand at smoking some chicken drumsticks, and I must say the result was nothing short of amazing! The smoky flavor that the chicken took on was out of this world, and it was the perfect addition to our summer barbecue.

Smoked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

120 mins

Additional Time

480 mins

Total Time

610 mins

Servings

12 servings

Smoked Chicken Drumsticks

Ingredients

  • 1. 12 chicken drumsticks
  • 2. ¼ cup vegetable oil (or as needed)
  • 3. ⅓ cup BBQ rub

Instructions

  • Preheat your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl and pour the vegetable oil over them, coating them evenly.
  • Sprinkle the BBQ rub over the chicken and mix everything together until the chicken is fully coated.
  • Place the chicken drumsticks on the smoker and smoke for 2 hours.
  • Flip the chicken and smoke for another 1 hour.
  • Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer, it should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

  • Serving size: 1 drumstick
  • Calories: 180
  • Total fat: 8 g
  • Saturated fat: 1 g
  • Trans fat: 0 g
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Total carbohydrates: 1 g
  • Dietary fiber: 0 g
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Protein: 22 g

Exploring different smoking techniques for chicken drumsticks

Exploring different smoking techniques for chicken drumsticks is a great way to add a smoky flavor to your favorite dish. From using a smoker to using a charcoal grill, there are several ways to get that smoky flavor. Below are some of the most popular smoking techniques for making smoked chicken drumsticks.

Smoker

Using a smoker is the most popular way of making smoked chicken drumsticks. The smoker will provide a smoky flavor that can’t be replicated with other cooking methods. Most smokers have a temperature dial and a water pan to help regulate the temperature and moisture of the smoke. To prepare the drumsticks for smoking, make sure to season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or whatever seasonings you prefer. Place the drumsticks on the smoker grate and smoke them over indirect heat for two to three hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

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Charcoal Grill

Using a charcoal grill to smoke chicken drumsticks is easy and yields delicious results. You’ll need to make sure that the grill has an adjustable air vent, which will help you control the temperature of the grill. Start by arranging the charcoal on one side of the grill, and then place the drumsticks on the other side. The goal is to cook the drumsticks over indirect heat, so they are exposed to the smoke but not directly to the heat. Cover the grill with the lid and smoke the drumsticks for two to three hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Wood Pellet Grill

A wood pellet grill is a great way to add a smoky flavor to your chicken drumsticks. Start by pouring a few handfuls of wood pellets into the pellet hopper, and then set the grill to the desired temperature. Place the drumsticks on the grill grate and smoke them for two to three hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. When the drumsticks are done, allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.

These are just a few of the most popular smoking techniques for making smoked chicken drumsticks. Experiment with different flavors and techniques to find the perfect smoky flavor for your favorite dishes.

Creative ways to use smoked chicken drumsticks in recipes

Smoked chicken drumsticks are an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used to create a variety of delicious recipes. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party dish, smoked chicken drumsticks are a great option to create something delicious and unique. Here are some creative ways to use smoked chicken drumsticks in recipes:

  • Create a flavorful soup. Smoked chicken drumsticks can be added to a variety of soups for an extra layer of flavor. Combine smoked chicken drumsticks with diced vegetables, herbs and spices, and chicken broth to create a hearty and flavorful soup.
  • Make a unique pizza topping. Smoked chicken drumsticks can be diced and used as a topping on your favorite pizza. The smoky flavor will add a unique twist to your traditional pizza.
  • Create a creamy pasta dish. Smoked chicken drumsticks can be used to create a creamy pasta dish. Cook the smoked chicken drumsticks in a skillet, dice them, and add them to your favorite creamy pasta sauce. Serve over spaghetti or your favorite pasta.
  • Create a flavorful wrap. Smoked chicken drumsticks can be used to create a flavorful wrap. Mix diced smoked chicken drumsticks with your favorite cheese, vegetables, and herbs. Wrap this mixture up in a tortilla or flatbread for a quick and tasty meal.
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These are just a few of the creative ways to use smoked chicken drumsticks in recipes. With a little bit of creativity, smoked chicken drumsticks can be used to create a variety of delicious recipes.

The health benefits of eating smoked chicken drumsticks

Eating smoked chicken drumsticks can provide a number of health benefits.

  • Chicken drumsticks are a great lean source of protein, providing essential amino acids that help build and repair muscle tissue.
  • Eating smoked chicken drumsticks can also be a great source of vitamins and minerals. They contain zinc, iron, selenium, and vitamin B-6, as well as niacin and riboflavin.
  • The smoking process helps to reduce the amount of fat in the drumsticks, making them a healthier choice than other cuts of chicken.
  • Eating smoked chicken drumsticks can also help to improve digestion. The smoking process helps to break down the proteins in the meat, making them easier to digest.
  • Smoked chicken drumsticks are low in calories, making them a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.
  • Eating smoked chicken drumsticks can also help to reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer. The smoking process helps to reduce the amount of carcinogens present in the meat.
  • Finally, smoked chicken drumsticks can help to reduce inflammation in the body. The smoking process helps to reduce the amount of pro-inflammatory compounds present in the meat.

Tips for safely smoking chicken drumsticks

Preheat your smoker to the correct temperature. Chicken drumsticks should be smoked at a temperature between 225 and 300 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure that the meat is cooked through and safe to eat.

  • Place the chicken drumsticks on the smoker’s grates, taking care to space them out so that they cook evenly.
  • Smoke the drumsticks for 1-2 hours, depending on the size of the drumsticks. Monitor the internal temperature of the drumsticks, using a food thermometer, to ensure that they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • When the drumsticks are cooked, remove them from the smoker and let them cool before serving or storing.
  • Store leftover cooked chicken drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
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How to properly store smoked chicken drumsticks

Keep the chicken drumsticks refrigerated. Wrap the chicken in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store in an airtight container or zip-top bag.

  • Put the container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking.
  • Discard the chicken if it has been left at room temperature for more than two hours.
  • Properly stored smoked chicken drumsticks will last up to four days in the refrigerator.
  • If you want to keep the drumsticks longer, you can freeze them. Wrap them tightly in airtight packaging and store them in the freezer for up to four months.
  • When you’re ready to eat the frozen drumsticks, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
  • Before reheating the drumsticks, make sure they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
  • To reheat the drumsticks, you can bake or grill them. If you choose to bake them, preheat the oven to 350°F and bake them for 15-20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • If you choose to grill them, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the drumsticks for 6-8 minutes, flipping them occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Once the drumsticks have been properly stored, cooked, and reheated, they can be served immediately.

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