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