Introduction
Juicy BBQ chicken drumsticks glazed with a rich maple bourbon sauce are perfect for your next cookout. The combination of sweet maple syrup and smoky bourbon creates a deliciously sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully when grilled on the Arteflame. By searing the drumsticks on the hot center grate and then finishing them on the flat top, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked, tender drumsticks every time.
Ingredients
- 10 chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for grill prep)
- 2 tbsp butter (for searing)
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Fire Up the Arteflame Grill
Prepare the Arteflame grill by pouring vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and placing them in the grill. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the grill. Allow it to heat for about 20 minutes until it reaches the optimal temperature for searing and cooking the drumsticks.
2. Prepare the Maple Bourbon Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, bourbon, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This glaze will add the perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness to the chicken as it cooks.
3. Season and Sear the Chicken Drumsticks
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry and season generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Melt the butter on the center grate of the grill. Place the drumsticks on the hot center grate and sear them for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they have a nice golden-brown crust.
4. Move to the Flat Top and Glaze
After searing, move the drumsticks to the flat top of the grill, where you can control the cooking speed by adjusting the heat zones. Brush the drumsticks with the maple bourbon glaze, coating them thoroughly. Cook the drumsticks for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with the glaze, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Rest and Serve
Remove the drumsticks from the grill once they reach 150°F and allow them to rest for 5 minutes. During this time, the residual heat will finish cooking them to perfection. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, and serve with extra maple bourbon glaze on the side.
Tips for Success
- Searing on the Center Grate: Start with a high-heat sear on the center grate to lock in the juices and create a crispy crust before moving to the flat top.
- Baste Often: Frequently brush the drumsticks with the maple bourbon glaze to build up layers of flavor and ensure a sticky, caramelized finish.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest off the grill will ensure the juices redistribute, making the meat more tender and juicy.
5 Variations of Maple Bourbon Drumsticks
- Spicy Maple Bourbon Drumsticks: Add 1-2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to the glaze for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused Maple Bourbon Drumsticks: Mix fresh chopped rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic twist.
- Maple Bourbon BBQ Wings: Use the same glaze for chicken wings, adjusting cooking times based on their size.
- Ginger Maple Bourbon Drumsticks: Add 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger to the glaze for a warm, zesty flavor.
- Citrus Maple Bourbon Drumsticks: Add the juice and zest of an orange or lemon to the glaze for a bright, tangy note.
Best Pairings
- Grilled sweet potatoes with maple butter
- Roasted Brussels sprouts or charred broccoli
- Fresh coleslaw with apple cider vinaigrette
- Grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter
Conclusion
These grilled BBQ chicken drumsticks with a maple bourbon glaze will be the star of any backyard cookout. Thanks to the Arteflame's high-heat searing and even cooking on the flat top, you’ll get juicy, tender drumsticks with a caramelized, flavorful glaze every time.
