Description
Smoked Chicken Drumsticks are tender, juicy, and infused with rich smoky flavor from slow smoking. The crispy skin pairs perfectly with a blend of savory spices, making these drumsticks a crowd-pleasing option for cookouts, game day, or casual dinners.
Ingredients
-
8 chicken drumsticks
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 teaspoon onion powder
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
½ teaspoon black pepper
-
Optional: ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for heat)
-
Wood chips (hickory, apple, or cherry) for smoking
Instructions
-
Preheat smoker to 225°F (107°C).
-
Pat drumsticks dry with paper towels. Toss with olive oil.
-
In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using. Rub spice mix evenly over all drumsticks.
-
Place drumsticks on smoker rack, leaving space between pieces for smoke circulation. Add wood chips to smoker.
-
Smoke drumsticks until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 2-2½ hours.
-
For crispy skin, optionally finish drumsticks over direct heat on a grill for 2-3 minutes per side or under a broiler.
-
Remove from smoker and rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-2½ hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American / Barbecue
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drumstick
- Calories: 150-180 kcal
- Sodium: 350-400mg
- Fat: 8-10g
- Saturated Fat: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 0-1g
- Protein: 20-22g