Grilling drumsticks is a favorite way to enjoy juicy flavorful chicken with that perfect smoky char. But if you’re wondering how long to cook drumsticks on the grill, timing is key to getting them tender and safe to eat without drying them out.
You want your drumsticks cooked through yet still moist with a crispy skin that’s full of flavor. Knowing the ideal grill time helps you avoid undercooking or overcooking, so you can serve up delicious chicken every time. Whether you’re a grilling newbie or looking to perfect your technique, understanding the cooking time makes all the difference.
In this guide, you’ll get clear tips on how long to grill drumsticks for mouthwatering results that’ll impress your family and friends.
Factors Affecting Cooking Time for Drumsticks on the Grill
Several factors influence how long drumsticks take to cook on the grill. Understanding these variables helps you control the cooking process to get tender, well-cooked meat without drying it out.
Size and Thickness of Drumsticks
Larger drumsticks take longer to cook because heat needs more time to penetrate thick meat. Smaller or thinner drumsticks cook faster but require close attention to avoid overcooking. For example, drumsticks weighing around 4 to 5 ounces typically grill in about 25 to 30 minutes, while meatier pieces may need 35 minutes or more.
Grill Temperature and Type
Higher grill temperatures reduce cooking time but increase the risk of burning the skin before the inside cooks through. Moderate heat between 350°F and 400°F balances cooking speed and even doneness. Gas grills offer precise temperature control, whereas charcoal grills add smoky flavor but require more monitoring of heat zones and flare-ups. Indirect grilling extends cooking time because the drumsticks cook slower, preventing charring while ensuring thorough cooking.
Marinating and Preparation
Marinated drumsticks often cook slightly faster because acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar can tenderize the meat. However, thicker marinades may create a surface that browns quickly, so lower grilling temperatures may be necessary to avoid burning. Removing excess marinade before grilling prevents flare-ups. Additionally, patting drumsticks dry helps achieve crispier skin, potentially allowing a shorter grilling time at higher heat for skin crispness without drying the meat.
Recommended Cooking Time and Temperature
Grilling chicken drumsticks requires precise control of temperature and timing to ensure juicy meat with crispy skin. Below are key details to guide your cooking process.
Ideal Grill Temperature for Drumsticks
Set your grill between 350°F and 400°F. This range ensures even cooking without charring the outside or leaving the inside undercooked. Use direct heat for searing in the first few minutes, then move to indirect heat to finish cooking evenly.
Average Cooking Time Range
Grill drumsticks for 25 to 30 minutes total. Turn them every 5 to 7 minutes to brown all sides evenly. Smaller drumsticks may take closer to 20 minutes, while larger ones can require up to 35 minutes. Adjust times if using a charcoal grill or recipes with thicker marinades.
Using a Meat Thermometer for Accuracy
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the drumstick without touching the bone. Cook chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This confirms safety and juiciness, preventing overcooking or undercooking.
Step-by-Step Guide to Grilling Drumsticks
Follow these steps to grill drumsticks perfectly every time. Proper preparation, grill setup, cooking technique, and doneness checks ensure juicy, flavorful results.
Preparing the Drumsticks
Trim excess fat and remove leftover feathers for a clean cooking surface. Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels to reduce moisture and promote crispy skin. Apply your chosen marinade or dry rub evenly; if marinating, do so for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderize. Remove excess marinade before grilling to avoid flare-ups and uneven charring.
Preheating and Maintaining the Grill
Preheat your grill to a consistent medium heat between 350°F and 400°F. Use a grill thermometer to verify temperature accuracy. Maintain this temperature throughout grilling by adjusting vents, burners, or charcoal placement. Keep the grill lid closed as much as possible to retain heat and provide even cooking.
Cooking Process and Tips for Even Cooking
Place drumsticks over indirect heat initially to cook through without burning the skin. Turn them every 5 to 7 minutes to ensure even browning on all sides. After internal temperature approaches 160°F, move drumsticks to direct heat briefly for 1 to 2 minutes per side to crisp the skin. Use tongs to handle the drumsticks, avoiding piercing the meat which can release juices.
Checking for Doneness
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the drumstick without touching bone. Reach an internal temperature of 165°F to confirm the chicken is safe and fully cooked. If the temperature falls short, continue grilling and check every 3 to 5 minutes. Allow drumsticks to rest for 5 minutes after removal to retain juices and enhance flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Grilling Drumsticks
- Ignoring grill temperature control
Failing to maintain the grill between 350°F and 400°F leads to uneven cooking, causing burnt skin or raw meat inside.
- Skipping regular turning
Not turning drumsticks every 5 to 7 minutes results in uneven browning and increases the risk of burning on one side.
- Cooking without a meat thermometer
Relying solely on appearance or time can leave drumsticks undercooked or dry; checking for an internal temperature of 165°F ensures safety and juiciness.
- Overloading the grill
Placing too many drumsticks at once lowers grill temperature, prolonging cooking time and reducing crispiness.
- Not trimming excess marinade or moisture
Leaving drumsticks overly wet causes flare-ups and prevents the skin from crisping properly during grilling.
- Starting on direct heat only
Grilling drumsticks exclusively over direct heat burns the outside before the inside cooks through; combining indirect and direct heat balances doneness and texture.
- Skipping resting after grilling
Serving drumsticks immediately causes juices to run out; resting for 5 minutes locks in moisture and enhances flavor.
Conclusion
Grilling drumsticks to perfection takes a bit of attention but it’s well worth the effort. By managing your grill temperature and keeping an eye on cooking times, you’ll get juicy meat with that crispy skin you want. Using a meat thermometer and turning the drumsticks regularly ensures even cooking and safety.
With these tips, you’re set to impress at your next cookout. Enjoy the process and savor every bite of your perfectly grilled drumsticks.