Smoked Chicken Drumsticks are just heaven in a mouthwatering treat of tender, juicy meat along with the full-bodied taste of a low-and-slow cook. These drumsticks, therefore, can become part of the fun of backyard barbecues or family dinners, a super game-day snack.
That’s the kind of smoky aromas combined with savory spice rub and just one … cannot stop everybody’s hunger for that burst of flavor at every bite.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (for caramelization)
- BBQ sauce (optional, for basting)
Instructions:
Preheat the smoker: Smoke your smoker with 250°F (120°C) wood chips of your choice-apple, hickory or cherry work great on chicken.
Prep the drumsticks: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with a paper towel. Drizzle them with some olive oil so the seasonings will stick well.
Spice Rub: In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and brown sugar. Spread it all over each drumstick so that is all coated pretty evenly.
Smoke the Chicken: Set the drumsticks in your smoker’s rack, allowing a little space between each to allow for even cooking. Smoke the chicken about 2-2.5 hours or at an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Baste with BBQ sauce optional): For a saucy finish, brush those drumsticks with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of smoking. It will give them a beautiful glaze and more flavor.
Servings: Let the drumsticks rest few minutes after smoking. Serve them smoky hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side, or as is, for a big flavorful meal.
Tips for Smoked Drumsticks:
- Low and slow: To cook the meat on low temperature for an extended period of time will keep it juicy and tender.
- Crispy skin: If you like crispy skin, finish them off on a grill or in the oven with high heat for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Try wood chips: Each kind of wood chip gives a different flavor. Try apple, hickory, or pecan and see which works best for you.
Nutritional Benefits of Smoked Chicken Drumsticks:
- Quality Protein
Chicken drumsticks are a good source of lean protein, very important for growth and repair of muscles besides various body functions. Protein also helps keep your immune system healthy and keeps you fuller longer, thus helping maintain weight. - Low in Carbohydrates
Smoked chicken drumsticks are carbs naturally low in quantity; hence, they are perfect for low-carb diets. A high-energy meal without spiking the blood sugar is a characteristic of such smoked chicken drumsticks. - Vitamins and Minerals
B Vitamins: Chicken is very rich in B vitamins, but it highlights specific concern with niacin, which is vitamin B3, contributing to energy production and healthy brain functioning.
Iron: Drumsticks are also a good source of iron. We require iron to form red blood cells and for the transport of oxygen throughout our bodies. - Zinc: Chicken is a good source of zinc, an important element for a healthy immune system and wound healing.
Conclusion:
These smoked chicken drumsticks are mouthwatering and easy to prepare for any occasion. Whether you’re already salivating over the scent of wood smoke, having those pieces of spicy rub against that tender meat was pure bliss.
If you’re hosting a barbecue or you’re simply looking for a savory meal, these drumsticks will surely be one of your favorites. Enjoy them with your favorite sides and you sure will have a meal everyone will rave about!