Virginia Honey BBQ Grilled Turkey Drumsticks

Introduction

These Virginia-style Honey BBQ Grilled Turkey Drumsticks are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The Arteflame grill delivers a high-heat sear on the center grate at over 1,000°F, sealing in juices for the ultimate BBQ experience. The fiery sear is followed by slow grilling on the outer flat cooktop to achieve perfect doneness and flavor, all without any lid or the need for pots and pans. The honey BBQ glaze brings a sweet tang that caramelizes beautifully for crispy skin and tender, smoky meat — pure grilling perfection.

Ingredients

• 4 large turkey drumsticks (about 1.5–2 lbs each)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon butter (for searing)
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand or a tangy Virginia-style)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour a bit of vegetable oil over three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack dry firewood on top of the napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the fire to build — you'll be ready to grill in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat and Season

1. While the grill heats up, pat the turkey drumsticks dry with paper towels.
2. Rub them thoroughly with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

Step 3: Make the Honey BBQ Glaze

1. Combine the honey, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Set aside for glazing during grilling.

Step 4: Sear the Drumsticks

1. Apply a dab of butter to the center grill grate of the Arteflame.
2. Sear each drumstick over the 1,000°F center grate for 2–3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms — this locks in the juices.

Step 5: Finish on the Flat Top

1. Move the drumsticks to the flat griddle cooktop area just outside the center — this zone is perfect for cooking them through slowly.
2. Brush with the honey BBQ glaze repeatedly every 5–10 minutes.
3. Cook the drumsticks for about 35–45 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even caramelization and crispy skin.
4. Remove the turkey when it hits an internal temp of 160°F. It will carry over to a perfect 175°F as it rests.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Let the drumsticks rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This locks in all that delicious juiciness.

Tips

• Always pull turkey at 15°F below your target internal temp — carryover cooking does the rest.
• Baste generously for a sticky, golden coating that crackles with flavor.
• Use the hotter zones of the Arteflame cooktop to perfect your timing and technique.
• Butter over oil — the flavor payoff is incredible.
• Never use pots or pans; the solid steel surface gives you ultimate control without flare-ups.

Variations

1. Spicy Chipotle Glaze: Substitute honey BBQ sauce with chipotle BBQ sauce and a dash of cayenne pepper.
2. Garlic Herb Butter Drumsticks: Skip the BBQ and baste with seasoned melted butter, garlic, and fresh rosemary.
3. Carolina Mustard Drumsticks: Use a tangy yellow mustard-based BBQ sauce with brown sugar and a splash of cider vinegar.
4. Asian Fusion Turkey Legs: Glaze with a mix of hoisin, soy sauce, honey, and ginger for a savory-sweet twist.
5. Bourbon Maple Drumsticks: Combine bourbon, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and cracked pepper for a rich flavor profile.

Best pairings

• Grilled balsamic-glazed veggies on the Arteflame flat top
• Sweet corn with herb butter (grilled on outer edge)
• Crispy potato wedges cooked on the flat top
• Fresh coleslaw with apple cider vinaigrette
• Ice-cold Virginia craft beer or sparkling apple cider

Conclusion

These grilled turkey drumsticks deliver the smoky-sweet flavor of Virginia BBQ with juicy meat and crispy skin that only the Arteflame grill can produce. With the reverse searing method, you master the art of flavor by combining flame and finesse. Perfect for backyard BBQs, family feasts, or showcasing grill skills.