Grilled Chicken Drumsticks with a sweet and savory glaze make for the perfect meal, offering a balance of smoky flavor from the grill and rich sweetness from the marinade and glaze. The combination of olive oil, maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar creates a juicy and flavorful drumstick that’s tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a family meal, these drumsticks are sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Grilled Chicken Drumsticks are simple yet flavorful, with a marinade that infuses the chicken with delicious seasonings. The addition of a balsamic glaze brings a rich sweetness that balances out the savory flavors perfectly. The recipe is easy to prepare and makes a great dinner option for busy weeknights or outdoor grilling sessions. Plus, the grill adds a smoky depth to the chicken that’s hard to beat. Best of all, the chicken stays moist and juicy while being packed with flavor.

Ingredients

The marinade:

½ cup olive oil
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar or honey
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (gluten-free version if needed)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon crushed dried rosemary
1 ½ teaspoon kosher salt (See Note 1)
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
8 chicken drumsticks (skin removed)

The glaze:

⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar or honey

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

The Marinade: In a glass bowl, whisk together all of the marinade ingredients until well combined.
Place the drumsticks in a ziplock bag or a glass or ceramic dish (avoid using metal as the acid can react with it).
Pour the marinade over the chicken drumsticks, turning them to coat well. If using a ziplock bag, seal it and “massage” the chicken to evenly coat the drumsticks.
Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or up to 24 hours.
Cooking the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before cooking to bring it closer to room temperature for more even grilling.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Once hot, brush the grill grates with oil (use an oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil).
Place the marinated chicken on the grill and close the lid. Cook the chicken, turning every 5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This should take about 25-35 minutes depending on the thickness of the drumsticks. If the chicken sticks to the grill, wait a few more minutes before turning to allow a crust to form and the chicken to release easily.
The Glaze: In a small saucepan, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Reduce the heat to simmer and cook until the glaze thickens, about 5 minutes.
Once the chicken is cooked, brush it with the glaze on one side, and cook for another minute. Flip the chicken, brush with glaze on the other side, and cook for another minute.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes (excluding marinating time)
Marinating time: 4-24 hours
Cook time: 25-35 minutes
Total time: 30-45 minutes (plus marinating time)

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for some extra heat.
Herb Variation: Experiment with fresh or dried herbs like thyme or oregano to customize the flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. For best results, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to retain its crispy skin.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, bone-in chicken thighs would work well with this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook.

2. Can I marinate the chicken for less than 4 hours?

While marinating for at least 4 hours allows the flavors to really sink in, you can marinate it for a shorter time if you’re in a hurry. Ideally, aim for 1-2 hours for best results.

3. Can I cook the chicken in the oven instead of on the grill?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F for 35-40 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

4. Can I use a different sweetener than maple syrup?

Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave nectar if you prefer. Each will bring its own subtle sweetness to the dish.

5. Can I freeze the marinated chicken before cooking?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken. Just place the chicken in a ziplock bag with the marinade, seal it, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.

6. How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The best way to check if the chicken is cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.

7. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the balsamic glaze in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, and reheat before using.

8. What type of grill works best for this recipe?

A charcoal grill or a gas grill both work well for grilling chicken drumsticks. The key is to maintain a medium-high heat throughout cooking.

9. Can I use skin-on drumsticks for this recipe?

While skinless drumsticks are used in this recipe for a healthier option, you can certainly use skin-on drumsticks if you prefer. Just note that the cooking time may be slightly longer.

10. How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Brushing the grill grates with oil before cooking helps prevent sticking. Also, letting the chicken cook for a few minutes before trying to turn it will help the crust form, allowing it to release easily.

Conclusion

These Grilled Chicken Drumsticks are bursting with flavor thanks to the marinade and glaze. They offer a sweet and savory taste with the perfect balance of smoky flavor from the grill. Whether you’re grilling for a special occasion or a casual meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to customize, making it a versatile dish for everyone at the table. Don’t forget to save any leftovers—they’re just as delicious the next day!

Grilled Chicken Drumsticks Recipe