Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Grilled Chicken Drumsticks in Flavorful Brine Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 38 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Grilled Drumsticks are soaked in a flavorful chicken leg brine before being grilled to juicy, tender perfection with a slightly charred exterior. The brine locks in moisture and infuses the chicken with rich flavors, making it an ideal recipe for cookouts, family dinners, and BBQ gatherings.

Ingredients

Chicken Brine

  • 8 chicken drumsticks
  • 8 cups water
  • ¼ cup kosher salt
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

For Grilling

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the brine: In a large bowl, combine the water, kosher salt, brown sugar, smashed garlic cloves, black peppercorns, bay leaves, and paprika. Stir well until the salt and sugar completely dissolve to create the brining liquid.
  2. Soak the drumsticks: Add the chicken drumsticks to the brine, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the drumsticks for 4 to 8 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate and the meat to stay juicy.
  3. Dry and season: Remove the drumsticks from the brine and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Brush each drumstick evenly with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper all over to season the meat before grilling.
  4. Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium heat, approximately 375–400°F (190–205°C), to create the perfect temperature for cooking chicken evenly without burning.
  5. Grill the drumsticks: Place the drumsticks on the preheated grill and cook for 30–35 minutes total. Turn them every 5–7 minutes to ensure they cook evenly on all sides and develop a beautiful char. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C), indicating they are fully cooked.
  6. Rest before serving: Remove the grilled drumsticks from the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making the chicken tender and flavorful when served.

Notes

  • Brining helps lock in moisture, making the chicken extra juicy and flavorful.
  • Avoid adding additional salt after brining to prevent over-seasoning.
  • This grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with side dishes like coleslaw, grilled corn, or potato salad.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://kitchenmartha.com/grilled-chicken-drumsticks-in-flavorful-brine-recipe-2/