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Smoked Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

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4.3 from 6 reviews

Deliciously tender and flavorful smoked chicken drumsticks, slow-cooked to perfection at a low temperature in a smoker. This recipe combines simple seasonings like garlic salt, onion powder, and black pepper with olive oil to create a juicy, smoky dish that's perfect for gatherings or a hearty meal.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4.5 pounds chicken drumsticks

Seasoning Mix

  • 2 Tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the smoker: Preheat your smoker to a steady temperature of 300°F (149°C) to ensure a consistent cooking environment for the chicken drumsticks.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Pat dry the chicken drumsticks thoroughly using paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps in better seasoning adherence and smoking.
  3. Mix seasoning and coat: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic salt, onion powder, and black pepper. Toss the drumsticks thoroughly in this oil mixture until all pieces are evenly coated for maximum flavor infusion.
  4. Place chicken in the smoker: Hang the coated chicken legs on the smoker rack. Ensure the lid is closed to maintain temperature and smoke concentration during cooking.
  5. Smoke the chicken: Smoke the drumsticks for approximately 2.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches between 175°F and 185°F (79°C to 85°C) at the thickest part away from the bone. If laying the legs flat on the grates, cooking time may reduce to 1.5 to 2 hours, so rely primarily on a meat thermometer for doneness.
  6. Rest before serving: Remove the smoked drumsticks from the smoker and let them rest for about 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and ensure tender, moist chicken.

Notes

  • Using a meat thermometer is crucial to avoid under or overcooking the chicken; aim for an internal temperature of 175 to 185°F.
  • Patting the chicken dry helps the seasoning stick better and improves smoke absorption.
  • You can lay the drumsticks flat on the grill grate for faster cooking but monitor the temperature carefully.
  • Resting the chicken after smoking allows the juices to settle, enhancing flavor and texture.
  • For extra smoky flavor, consider adding wood chips like hickory or applewood to your smoker.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Smoking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://recipesvibe.com/smoked-chicken-drumsticks-recipe/