Quick and easy grilled chicken drumsticks are an ideal weeknight meal for the grill. With just three main ingredients, they’re fast to prepare and packed with flavor.
Grilled chicken is a family favorite at our house — from drumsticks to chicken breasts and skewers — and these drumsticks are consistently at the top of our rotation. They’re simple, flavorful, kid-friendly, and perfect for a weekend cookout or a quick weekday dinner.
Try these Southwest Grilled Chicken Drumsticks this week for an easy, satisfying meal.
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Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
Grilled Chicken DrumsticksThese drumsticks are simple, tasty, and fun to eat — the built-in handle makes them especially appealing for kids and adults alike. With only three ingredients, they go from prep to grill in minutes and cook quickly. They’re excellent as a main course and also serve well as an affordable, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
Chicken drumsticks – Use fresh drumsticks when possible. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.
Olive oil – Brushing with oil prevents sticking and adds flavor.
Taco seasoning – A Southwest-style taco seasoning works great here, but any seasoning blend you prefer will work to change the flavor profile.
How to Grill Chicken Drumsticks
- Prep the grill – Preheat the grill and clean the grates well. Use a non-stick spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking.
- Prep the drumsticks – Brush the drumsticks with olive oil and rub the taco seasoning evenly over them. For added flavor, gently lift the skin and rub some seasoning underneath.
- Grill – Place the drumsticks on the grill and cook for about 30 minutes, turning every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Preventing flare-ups when grilling fatty meats
- Keep the grill clean to reduce grease buildup and sticking.
- Avoid overcrowding the grill. If flare-ups occur, move pieces to a cooler area until the flames subside.
- Keep a sheet of foil on one side of the grill as a safe zone — spray it with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Trim excess fat from the pieces before cooking to reduce drips and flare-ups.
Do you need to preheat the grill?
Yes — preheating is important. Lighting the grill and immediately placing food on it can lead to uneven cooking, longer cook times, and food that dries out. Preheating helps you achieve a better sear and caramelization, which adds flavor, and it also reduces sticking so flipping is easier.
- Preheating shortens overall cook time and helps prevent overcooking.
- It creates a flavorful char by caramelizing sugars on the surface.
- A properly heated grill reduces sticking so you can turn the chicken cleanly.
How long to grill chicken drumsticks?
Plan on about 30 minutes, rotating the drumsticks every 10 minutes. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 185–190°F (85–88°C). A reliable meat thermometer is the easiest way to check doneness.
Side Dish Ideas
Make a complete meal with these easy sides:
- Grilled mixed vegetables or grilled asparagus.
- Cheesy grilled garlic bread for a crowd-pleasing addition.
- BBQ baked beans for classic barbecue flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Marinate for more depth: coat the drumsticks with oil and seasoning and refrigerate for up to two days.
- Swap seasonings: try Italian, Cajun, or fajita seasoning for different flavor profiles.
- Finish with sauce: brush on BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for a sticky glaze.
- Use other cuts: chicken thighs can be substituted; adjust grilling time for size.
Serve a platter of Southwest chicken drumsticks garnished with minced cilantro and lime wedges. They’re easy to grab and always a hit — give them a try and enjoy!
More Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
- Grilled BBQ Chicken Legs
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs on the Grill
- Grilled Ranch Chicken Drumsticks
If you make this recipe, please share a photo and tag @gimmesomegrilling — I love seeing what you cook!
Southwest Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
10 mins
30 mins
40 mins
Ingredients
-
2
lb
chicken legs -
2
Tbsp
olive oil -
2-3
Tbsp
taco seasoning
Instructions
-
Preheat grill to 350°F (175°C). Clean and oil the grates or spray with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
-
Brush drumsticks with olive oil and rub taco seasoning evenly over each piece, lifting the skin to season underneath if desired.
-
Grill for about 30 minutes, turning every 10 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 185–190°F (85–88°C).
Tips
Nutrition Information
We are not dietitians. Nutrition info is calculated and may vary; consult a nutritionist or your preferred calculator for exact values.