Grilled Chicken Drumsticks on the Arteflame Grill

These grilled chicken drumsticks are smoky, juicy, and cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill. The reverse searing method ensures crispy skin on the outside and tender, flavorful meat on the inside.

Ingredients

8 chicken drumsticks
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp unsalted butter (for basting)
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

For the Grill

Vegetable oil (for starting the fire)

Instructions

1. Fire Up the Grill

Get the Arteflame grill ready by pouring vegetable oil on three paper napkins. Place the napkins in the grill and stack firewood on top. Light the napkins and allow the fire to get going. In about 20 minutes, the grill will be ready for cooking.

2. Season the Drumsticks

Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. Coat them with olive oil, then rub with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Sear the Drumsticks

Place the drumsticks on the center grill grate over the hottest part of the grill. Sear each drumstick for about 3 minutes per side, getting a nice char without overcooking.

4. Move to the Flat Cooktop

After searing, transfer the drumsticks to the outer flat cooktop to finish cooking. Position them toward the cooler outer edge of the cooktop, where they’ll cook more evenly. Turn them occasionally and cook for 15-20 minutes, depending on size.

5. Butter Baste

Melt butter on the flat cooktop and baste the drumsticks during the final few minutes of cooking. This will add a rich flavor and help crisp the skin even more.

6. Check the Internal Temperature

Remove the drumsticks from the grill when their internal temperature reaches 170°F. Let them rest for a few minutes as they continue to cook and reach the ideal 175°F. Don't overcook the drumsticks! Taking the chicken thighs off right before they are done is perfect as they will continue cooking. This will ensure a nice juicy drumstick full of flavor!

7. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley over the drumsticks before serving. Add extra BBQ sauce or a squeeze of fresh lime for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips

Pat the drumsticks dry: This helps the skin crisp up when searing.
Reverse searing: This method ensures that the drumsticks cook evenly without drying out.
Monitor heat zones: Use the edge of the flat cooktop to finish the drumsticks slowly, avoiding burning while ensuring the meat is fully cooked.

Conclusion

Grilling chicken drumsticks on the Arteflame grill delivers a smoky, delicious flavor with perfectly crispy skin. The reverse searing technique ensures juicy, tender meat every time, making these drumsticks the star of your next BBQ.

5 Variations of Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

BBQ Glazed Drumsticks: Baste the drumsticks with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a sweet and smoky glaze.
Lemon Pepper Drumsticks: Coat the drumsticks in a mix of lemon zest, black pepper, and garlic powder for a zesty and peppery flavor.
Spicy Sriracha Drumsticks: Marinate the drumsticks in a mixture of Sriracha, soy sauce, and honey for a sweet and spicy kick.
Herb-Garlic Drumsticks: Rub the drumsticks with a mixture of minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme for a flavorful, herbaceous option.
Teriyaki Drumsticks: Glaze the drumsticks with teriyaki sauce in the last 5 minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory taste.