Massachusetts Cape Cod Cranberry BBQ Drumsticks

Introduction

Get ready for mouthwatering, slow-grilled drumsticks infused with the bold flavors of Massachusetts cranberries and tangy barbecue sauce. Using the Arteflame Grill, we’ll sear your chicken on the ultra-hot center grate and then gently cook it to perfection on the flat cooktop, ensuring juicy, fall-off-the-bone goodness. This reverse-searing technique locks in the juices and gives you perfect texture and flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp butter (for cooking)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the fire to build for about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches at least 1,000°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Cranberry BBQ Sauce

1. In a bowl, mix cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well until fully combined and smooth.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken Drumsticks

1. Place drumsticks on the center grill grate for a high-heat sear.
2. Sear on each side for 1-2 minutes until a beautiful crust forms.

Step 4: Slow-Cook on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the seared drumsticks to the flat cooktop near the center for higher heat.
2. Brush them generously with the cranberry BBQ sauce.
3. Turn the drumsticks every few minutes, brushing with more sauce as they cook.
4. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (remove at 150°F as carryover heat will finish the cooking).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the drumsticks from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes.
2. Serve hot with extra cranberry BBQ sauce on the side.

Tips

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in half of the cranberry BBQ sauce for at least 1 hour before grilling.
• Use butter instead of oil for a richer flavor and perfect sear.
• Always remove meat from the grill 15°F before the final desired temperature.
• Use the outer edges of the cooktop for keeping cooked food warm while finishing the rest.

Variations

1. Spicy Cranberry Drumsticks: Add 1 tsp cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
2. Maple-Glazed Cranberry Drumsticks: Substitute honey with 2 tbsp maple syrup for a sweet twist.
3. Garlic-Herb Cranberry Drumsticks: Add 1 tbsp fresh chopped rosemary and thyme.
4. Asian-Inspired Cranberry Drumsticks: Mix in 1 tbsp soy sauce and a dash of sesame oil.
5. Bourbon Cranberry Drumsticks: Add 2 tbsp bourbon for a deep, smoky flavor.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with herb butter
• Roasted sweet potatoes on the flat cooktop
• Grilled asparagus with lemon zest
• Fresh coleslaw with a light vinaigrette
• A refreshing cranberry lemonade or a crisp Massachusetts cider

Conclusion

These Massachusetts Cape Cod Cranberry BBQ Drumsticks are packed with flavor, seared to perfection, and slow-grilled to tender, juicy goodness. With the magic of the Arteflame Grill, achieving steakhouse-quality grilling at home has never been easier. Try this recipe and enjoy the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors in every bite!